There are definitely people out there who don’t know the difference between an interior designer and an interior decorator. And to be honest, it’s not surprising. The two fields are incredibly similar, and both involve working with clients to create beautiful spaces. If you won a few games of online pokies for real money, you might want to use your winnings to hire one or the other for your home.
So what is the difference between the two? An interior designer is someone who specializes in creating functional, livable spaces. They take into account a space’s layout, lighting, and acoustics, and they work with their clients to make sure the space meets their needs. An interior decorator, on the other hand, is someone who focuses on the aesthetic of a space. They choose furniture, paint colors, and window treatments, and they work to make a space look its best.
While there is some overlap between the two fields, they are definitely different. So if you’re not sure which one you need, read on to find out.
Interior Designer Vs. Interior Decorator
Interior designers are trained and licensed professionals who create functional and safe interior spaces. They typically have a college degree in interior design and may also be certified by the National Council for Interior Design Qualification (NCIDQ).
Interior decorators are not required to have any formal education or training. They might have experience working in the home furnishings or design industry, but they are not necessarily knowledgeable about building codes or the mechanics of creating a functional and safe space.
Interior designers typically work with architects and builders to ensure that the spaces they create meet the specific needs of their clients. They take into account things like traffic flow, lighting, acoustics, and ergonomics when designing a space.
IInterior decorators typically focus on the aesthetic elements of a space, such as color, furniture, fabrics, and flooring. They might also provide advice on window treatments, wall coverings, and accessories.
Interior designers often create design plans that include all of the necessary details for the construction of space. They may also provide specifications for the materials and finishes that will be used in the space.
IInterior decorators typically work with clients to select and purchase the furniture, fabrics, and accessories that will be used in a space. They might also provide advice on placement and arrangement.
Interior designers often have access to trade discounts on furniture, fabrics, and other items that they can pass on to their clients.
Interior decorators typically charge by the hour or by the project. Interior designers may also charge a percentage of the total construction costs for a project.
In general, an interior designer is more important than an interior decorator. An interior designer is trained in both the functional and aesthetic aspects of design and can help create a space that is not only beautiful but also practical and functional.
An interior decorator, on the other hand, is typically only concerned with the aesthetic appeal of a space and may not have the skills or training to address issues like space planning or lighting design.
