What is the difference between interior architecture and interior design?

Interior architecture focuses on structural and spatial elements — walls, openings, built-ins, and building systems — while interior design focuses on finishes, furnishings, and decor. Piper Cole Architects delivers both as an integrated service.

Do I need an architect for an interior renovation in Seattle?

If your renovation involves structural changes, changes to walls or openings, or updated mechanical/electrical systems, you'll need permitted drawings from a licensed architect. We can help assess your project scope.

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Interior Architecture

Architecture Services

Interior Architecture

425 753 6452

WhatsApp David

The first feasibility check is free and usually takes about a day.

Free feasibility check

Send the address and what you have in mind. David replies within one business day with what the site and the code are likely to allow.

1996Licensed architect since 1996
1992AIA member since 1992
20 to 30Projects designed each year
3Masonry Excellence Awards
AIAAIA · NCARB · Washington licensed

Interior Architecture in Seattle & Kirkland, WA

Interior architecture is the discipline that bridges structure and inhabitation, the decisions about space, light, proportion, and material that determine how a building feels from the inside. At Piper Cole Architects, interior architecture is integrated into every project from the very first sketch, ensuring that exterior vision and interior experience are inseparable.

Interior Architecture Services

Spatial Planning

How rooms relate to each other, how circulation flows, how proportions make people feel comfortable or expansive.

Staircase Design

Sculptural and functional, a staircase is often the centerpiece of a home. We design stairs that make a statement.

Built-in Cabinetry & Millwork

Custom built-ins, shelving, window seats, and cabinetry designed as part of the architecture, not added after.

Ceiling & Lighting Architecture

Coffered ceilings, exposed structure, skylights, and lighting integration that shape the character of every room.

Material & Finish Selection

We guide clients through material selection with an architect’s eye for proportion, durability, and coherence.

Interior Architecture vs. Interior Design

Interior architecture is distinct from interior decoration or interior design. It addresses the structural, spatial, and technical aspects of interior space, walls, floors, ceilings, built elements, and openings. Our interior architecture work is always coordinated with the structural and mechanical systems of the building, resulting in spaces that are not only beautiful but buildable.

Integrated with Every Project

Whether you are building a new home, adding to an existing one, or renovating, our interior architecture services are available as part of a full project or as a focused engagement on specific interior spaces.

Areas We Serve

We serve clients in Kirkland, Seattle, Bellevue, Redmond, Mercer Island, and throughout the Seattle metro area.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between an interior architect and an interior designer?

An interior architect holds a professional architecture license and can address structural, spatial, and technical aspects of interior space. An interior designer focuses primarily on finishes, furnishings, and decoration. For projects involving structural walls, built-ins, or spatial reconfiguration, an architect is the appropriate professional.