INTERIOR DESIGN TERMINOLOGY - DEFINED -
As designers, we use many terms to refer to the various stages or components involved in a construction project. In the following journal article, we’ll explore what some of this terminology means and how the knowledge can better help our clients feel more involved and in the know when it comes to the design process.
Interior Design (ID) - Interior Design is the art and science of enhancing the interior of a space to create a more aesthetically pleasing and functional environment. Interior designers are professionals who work with clients to plan and execute the design of residential, commercial, or institutional spaces. Their goal is to optimize the use of space, improve the quality of life, and create an atmosphere that reflects the client's needs and style preferences. The process involves various stages such as conceptualization, schematic and preliminary planning, detailed design, and documentation.
Building Design (BD) - Building design refers to the process of creating the plans, layouts, and specifications for the construction of a building. It involves a combination of architectural, engineering, and aesthetic considerations to ensure that the building meets both functional and visual requirements. The building design process encompasses various stages, including conceptualization, planning, detailed design, and documentation.
Computer-aided Drafting (CAD) – Is the use of computer-based software to aid in design processes. Different types of engineers and designers frequently use CAD software. CAD software can be used to create two-dimensional (2-D) drawings or three-dimensional (3-D) models.
Schematic Design - Conceptual plans showing locations of program space at scaled size.
Preliminary Design - Further developed plans showing physical spaces and attributes such as doors, windows, walls, etc.
Construction Documents - Detailed plans indicating how to construct the physical spaces of a building or its interior spaces. Construction documents also encompass all the drawings, specifications and addenda associated with a specific construction project.
Specifications - A detailed and exact statement of the particulars involved within a construction project. These include - but aren’t limited to - the material, finishes, product and fixture selections found within a design project.
Rendering - In computer-aided design (CAD), the term “render” refers to a particular view of a 3D digital model that has been converted into a realistic image, such as a building interior or exterior.
Redline – A red-line drawing is essentially an intermediate drawing that shows corrections or changes to a previous drawing. The term red line comes from the (typically) red pen used to amend these drawings by hand. These change mark-ups are made to a drawing throughout the various design stages of a project.
Issued for Tender/Pricing (IFT) - Refers to the stage in a construction or procurement process when the project's documents and specifications are released to potential contractors or suppliers, inviting them to submit bids or tenders for the project. This typically occurs after the design phase has been completed and the project is ready for construction or implementation.
Building Permit (BP) - Refers to an official approval granted by a local government or regulatory body that allows an individual or organization to proceed with a construction project. This includes new constructions, renovations, alterations, or changes to existing structures. The permit serves as a legal document, indicating that the proposed work complies with local building codes, zoning regulations, and other applicable laws.
Development Permit (DP) - Refers to an official approval issued by a local government or planning authority that authorizes specific land use or development activities within a designated area, unlike a building permit, which primarily focuses on the structural aspects of construction, a development permit deals with broader land use considerations. It regulates the use, appearance, and layout of properties within a community.
Issued for Construction (IFC) - Refers to a phase in a construction project where the final set of construction documents, including detailed drawings, specifications, and any other necessary information, is formally released to the selected contractor. The project is considered ready for physical implementation at this stage, and the construction process can begin.
With so many moving parts involved within a single design or construction project, staying on top of the vernacular should be the least of your worries. While we may refer to all or only some of these terms during the design process, always ask questions to better understand and really immerse yourself within the project at hand. Happy Designing!