Interior Designer vs. Interior Decorator
In the dynamic world of interior design, the distinction between interior decorators and interior designers often raises questions and sparks debates.
As a professional who has embraced the title of an "Interior Designer" in my branding, but the scope of my work is technically “Interior Decoration”, I find it imperative to shed light on this confusing subject.
My aim is clarify the difference so you can confidently decide who you truly need to hire when it comes time to updating your space! So, let's embark on breaking down and understanding the unique roles and creative flair that set interior decorators and interior designers apart.
Defining the Terms
To kick things off, let's establish some clarity on the terminology.
Traditionally, interior decorators focus primarily on enhancing the aesthetic appeal of a space. They select colors, fabrics, furnishings, and decor to create a cohesive and visually pleasing environment. They can plan layouts and come up with ideas on how to make the space you already have work better for your lifestyle.
On the other hand, interior designers take a broader approach, encompassing both aesthetics and functionality. They delve into space planning, structural changes, and even architectural elements to ensure a space not only looks good but also functions optimally. They will take on longer and more detailed projects that require a contractors, while interior decorators do not.
Designers typically have a degree in interior design, and rightfully so - there is a lot of work and knowledge that goes into understanding the structure of a home and collaborating with contractors. A degree isn’t required (depending on the state you live and work in) but typically encouraged. Decorators don’t need to have a degree, as our scope of work isn’t as tedious and collaborative. We are typically taking a space as it is and enhancing it visually.
The Decorator's Perspective
As someone who dons the title of "Interior Designer" in my branding, you might wonder why I choose this designation when my work predominantly aligns with the traditional role of an “Interior Decorator”.
The reason is simple – the general population doesn’t know the difference between those two titles and therefore uses the terms interchangeably.
Most people don’t even know the term “interior decorator” exists - and why would they? We’ve all got enough things filling up our brains from our own lives, so it wouldn’t be common knowledge. But when it comes time to getting some help in upgrading your home, this terminology awareness is key!
So let’s go over some reasons you would hire a decorator, and reasons you would hire a designer so that you can pick the right person when you need them:
Photo by Milivoj Kuhar on Unsplash
Reasons to Hire an Interior Designer:
Functional Space Planning: If you need to redesign the layout of your space, make structural changes, or optimize the functionality of a room, an interior designer is the right professional for the job. They can reconfigure spaces to improve flow and usability.
Customization and Built-Ins: Interior designers can create custom-designed furniture, built-in storage solutions, and architectural details tailored to your needs and the specific dimensions of your space.
Complex Projects: For large-scale renovations, new construction, or projects that involve architectural changes, an interior designer can coordinate with architects and contractors to ensure a cohesive design and seamless execution.
Codes and Regulations: Interior designers are often well-versed in building codes and regulations, making them essential for projects that require compliance with legal and safety standards.
Full-Service Design: Interior designers offer comprehensive design services, including concept development, space planning, material selection, project management, and overseeing construction. They can handle all aspects of a project from start to finish.
Long-Term Investment: If you view your project as a long-term investment in your home's value and functionality, an interior designer can help you make informed decisions that align with your goals and budget.
Photo by Anna Sullivan on Unsplash
Reasons to Hire an Interior Decorator:
Embracing Your Space: If you want to keep your room the way that it is structurally, a decorator will take what shape and status the room is already in, and make it better!
Aesthetic Enhancement: If your primary goal is to improve the visual appeal and style of your space, an interior decorator is an excellent choice. They specialize in selecting color schemes, furnishings, fabrics, and decor to create a cohesive and aesthetically pleasing environment.
Cost-Effective: Interior decorators often charge lower fees than interior designers because their focus is on decor and furnishings. If you have a limited budget but still want to refresh your space, an interior decorator can more likely work within your financial constraints.
Personalized Style: If you have a strong sense of your personal style and design preferences, an interior decorator can help you bring your vision to life. They'll work with your existing tastes to curate a space that reflects your unique personality.
Quick Turnaround: Interior decorators can often complete projects more quickly than interior designers because their work is primarily focused on selecting and arranging furnishings and decor. This can be advantageous if you have a tight timeline.
Room-Specific Projects: If you're looking to update a single room or a specific area of your home, such as a living room or bedroom, hiring an interior decorator can be a practical choice. They can concentrate their expertise on the areas that matter most to you.
Rental Conundrum: If you rent your space, you won’t have the power to do any type of construction, therefore the only option to make your space more designed is to hire a decorator.
In Conclusion:
The decision to hire an interior decorator or an interior designer will depend on the scope and objectives of your specific project. Therefore you need to make sure you know what you want and need for your space before deciding who you need to hire.
Since many people in this industry might also use the titles interchangeably (like me), you will want to specify with whoever you reach out to about what the scope of their work entails. Read FAQ pages and chat with them about what they can and cannot do for your space makeover.
But, whether you call me an "Interior Designer" or an "Interior Decorator," the essence of my work remains the same – to transform spaces into realms of beauty and comfort.
What truly matters to me most is the joy of crafting spaces that bring you wellness, honor sustainability practices, and create more peace in the world.
LET’S MAKE YOUR HOME MORE HARMONIOUS
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