Which Best Fits your Needs: Interior Designer or Interior Decorator?

If you’re thinking about a new look inside your home, you may be confused about whether you need an interior designer or an interior decorator. That may depend on how extensive your changes will be.

While there is some overlap in interior design and decorating, they are fundamentally different. Quite simply, interior designers can handle décor, but it doesn’t work the other way around. It’s best to know who you need before making any calls. INTERIOR DESIGN Renowned designer Albert Hadley stated, “The essence of interior design will always be about people and how they live.” Interior design is the art and science of understanding people’s behavior to create functional spaces and it requires a degree to practice. The process of interior design follows a coordinated methodology including research, analysis and integration of knowledge into the creative process to meet the needs of the client. Interior designers work closely with contractors and architects to design and execute plans for a functional yet beautiful space. Good interior designers work closely to recognize what you need from your remodel. They coordinate with your architect to ensure the architectural design incorporates your needs. Designers narrow down your choices in cabinets, countertops, hardware, tile, lighting and appliances to a smaller number of items. Otherwise, you would be swimming in choices. An interior designer helps property owners create functional, pleasing rooms. These pros consider safety, flow, space, efficiency and current trends while designing. INTERIOR DECORATING Decorators assist homeowners in selecting personal elements and furnishings to suit a certain theme or style.

They may not have the education, but what you want is experience. Decorators may choose a color scheme, suggest wallpaper, paint color and additional finishes. They will shop for furniture, arrange the furniture along with art and accessories and align the overall aesthetics of a space.

It’s important to understand that decorators legally can’t do design. Some pros use the terms interchangeably so be aware and ask questions.

An interior decorator will help you fashion a beautiful place to live by making aesthetic changes rather than structural. They are knowledgeable in furniture and decor decisions to come up with a unique style for you and your family. Their work begins after the structural work ends. DÉCOR VS. DECORATION Décor refers to the aesthetic components used to make a home more appealing and visually attractive. Home décor is comprised of all physical items and objects like furniture, art and accessories, placement of physical items and objects, and room colors and materials such as flooring, wall coverings and window coverings. This also includes all decorations.

Which leads to decorations that make something look nicer by adding or changing items like wallpaper, paint, etc. Décor is a much larger category into which decorations belong.