The terms ‘Interior Designer’ and ‘Interior Decorator’ are often used interchangeably, but as you begin the hiring process it may be difficult to determine which is the best to hire for your home project. Here’s what you should know about interior designers vs. interior decorators.
Interior Designer
Requiring specific schooling and formal training, an interior designer understands and has experience in, a multitude of studies including:
- Computer-aided design
- Drawing
- Space planning
- Furniture design
- Architecture
In some states, however, designers require a license by the municipality. So, it’s important to check before making a final decision.
Designers have experience in spatial planning. They often work closely with architects, contractors, and other professionals to help create the look you desire within the interior of your home or business. The experience and specific training of an interior designer give them the added abilities to not only improve the aesthetics of your room but enhance the overall functionality of your interior space.
Interior Decorators
While there are plenty of interior decorators who have studied extensively in their field, there are no requirements for formal training or schooling. This is due to the fact that an interior decorator’s main focus is based on aesthetics rather than functionality.
Interior decorators can help plan usage and layouts of available space, styles of furniture that will best suit your unique needs and personal taste, as well as, colors and fabrics that will complement the design of your interior space.
Decorators do not often involve themselves with other professionals, like contractors or architects working on your project. In most cases, interior decorators join your project after the structural work has been done. They mainly work with other kinds of professionals, such as, upholsterers and furniture makers.
Interior Designer vs. Interior Decorator – Which Should You Hire?
So which should you hire for your project? If you plan on changing the structure or architectural features of your space, certainly, an interior designer may best suit your needs. A designer can help you with:
- Moving, adding, or removing a wall
- Rearranging plumbing
- Adding new windows or doors
On the other hand, if you simply need help choosing a new look for your space, without changes to the structural layout, an interior decorator is a great choice. This type of professional, however, can help you with tasks including:
- Design style
- Choosing wallpaper, paint, and color palettes
- Funiture design
- Lighting
- Interior accessories
- Window treatments
- Window prices by size | replacement windows cost
- And more