One of the questions that I always pose to my students and their parents in the Design Careers course is: "How do you distinguish between an Interior Decorator and an Interior Designer?" The responses that I receive are usually quite humorous and reveal some common misconceptions about the two professions. In this blog, I will explain the main differences and similarities between them, as well as the skills and qualifications required for each one.
Many people confuse the two terms and use them interchangeably. They associate "interior design" with the "room makeover" shows they watch on TV, or the DIY decor projects they find on Pinterest, but what they have in mind is actually interior decorating. Interior design and interior decorating have some similarities, but they are also distinct professions with different roles and responsibilities. So, before we start the next course, I want to clarify the main differences between them. Here is my explanation:
Interior Design vs. Interior Decorating
Many people confuse interior designers and interior decorators, but they are not the same. Interior designers have to be certified by passing a professional exam, while interior decorators can work without any formal training.
Interior design is a discipline that combines art and science to create functional and comfortable spaces for people, taking into account building codes, health and safety standards, and technical and structural limitations. Interior decorating is a craft that involves choosing and arranging decorative elements to enhance the appearance and style of a space. In other words, interior designers can also decorate, but decorators cannot design.
It is important for clients and homeowners to understand the difference between the two professions and what they can offer. Here are some of the main distinctions in the roles and qualifications
A professional interior designer must complete formal education and certification to practice in the field. Interior decorators do not have such requirements, but they can benefit from taking various courses to improve their skills. Interior decorating can be learned through experience or gradually as one gains more exposure.
Interior designers must understand their client's behaviour, taste, and preferences to create functional, safe, and beautiful spaces for them. They are comfortable with spatial planning and can help design and renovate interiors—from drawing up the initial floor plans to placing the last decorative accent. Designers don't just enhance the look of a space, but also determine its function. On the other hand, interior decorating involves furnishing space with decorative accessories or furniture. Good decorators are skilled at coming into a room and whipping it into visual shape. For new spaces, they can help clients decide on a style, choose, purchase furniture, and accessorize. They're also often brought in to spruce up an existing space that needs to be updated or redone.
Interior designers are experts in creating spaces that suit their client's needs, preferences, and lifestyle. They can design and remodel interiors from scratch, or work with existing structures and layouts. They not only make spaces look attractive, but also ensure they are functional and safe. Interior designers are involved in every stage of the project, from drafting the initial floor plans to selecting the final decorative touches. On the other hand, interior decorators focus on furnishing and accessorising spaces with decorative items or furniture. They have a good eye for style, color, and aesthetics, and can transform a room's appearance and mood. They can help clients choose a style, buy furniture, and accessorise for new spaces, or refresh and update old ones.
Interior designers often work closely with architects and contractors to help achieve the look the client desires, whether that client is designing a residential home, an office, a hotel, or any other interior space. Decorators don't generally work with any contractors or architects, since structural work is usually complete before they come on board. They do, however, work with furniture makers, upholsterers, and other industry professionals. Most often, though, they work directly with homeowners or business managers.
So, to summarise: If structural changes are needed (such as removing a wall, moving plumbing or wiring around, or adding new windows or doors), then generally an interior designer is the better choice. Designers can help plan for significant structural changes and help make them happen by working directly with architects and builders. On the other hand, if there are no structural changes needed but you need aesthetic help (choosing wallpaper, paint, and furnishings; picking window treatments, and choosing lighting and accessories) an interior decorator will be more suited to your project. Experienced decorators know what works together and can transform a room to suit a client's style.
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