ARCHITECT AS DECORATOR

Nelson Evening Mail, Volume LXXIII, 1 July 1939, Page 12

ARCHITECT AS DECORATOR

A NEW MOVEMENT Tl is mentioned in “Pencil Points” that some American architects have extended their practice to the field of decoration of the interiors of offices, shops and dwellings. “This field of endeavour evolved from the realisation that average people need advice in selecting furnishings,” it is slated. “Its range lias been enlarged to include entire ensembles, utilities, and even construction problems. This comprehensive scope makes it essential that decorators be thoroughly trained, experienced, and ethical. Since it involves design, highly expert service, and the handling of expenditures as agent in the interests of others, the practice of decoration assumes a professional aspect. Inasmuch as it is customary for the decorator to sell merchandise to the client at a profit, it is also a business. “Until rather recently, employment of an interior decorator was considered a luxury only to be afforded by the wealthy. Through the co-operation of supply outlets, quantity production, and standardisation,• the practice became more general. “The conscientious decorator renders a tremendous amount of service. Shopping, designing, selecting, co-ordinating, supervising, and infinite attention to paiustakig details involve a lengthy and costly procedure. Inasmuch as most orders are for comparatively small amounts, discounts have been established at percentages large enough to leave a fair margin of profit af-

ter service costs are deducted. “One of the most important functions of au architect is the conservation of the client’s finances. This has been true, especially, in recent years, lie has developed to a remarkable degree the ability to achieve results at minimum expenditures. Limited budgets and disproportionate demands of clients have resulted in econoini- ! ci! design. The architect keeps a zealous watch upon all costs, if for no other reason than to keep the project from expiring with the taking of bids. This same tendency, applied to interior design* should make for tremendous savings for the clients.”