July 11, 2017 | Home Improvement The differences between an interior designer and interior decorator If you are moving into a new home or remodeling your current one, you could be considering hiring someone to help. A quick internet search and some input from friends and family will leave you with more questions. Such as what is the difference between an interior designer and interior decorator and which should you hire. Although often mistaken as the same, they do provide different services. However, they also share quite a few similarities, which is probably why people often confuse the two. So here is how you can tell the difference between an interior designer and interior decorator. What is Interior Design? Interior design requires an academic background that usually involves studying color and fabric, computer-aided design (CAD) training, drawing, space planning, furniture design, and architecture. In simpler terms, an interior designer creates a functional living or work space in order to accommodate people’s needs. Designers plan the layout of any room to make it as functional as possible. Usually, an interior designer works closely with contractors and architects. In a way, they work towards the same goal, which is to present the client with the final look they are hoping for. This means that a designer is involved from the beginning of a project up until the last decorative piece is placed in an area. What is Interior Decorating? Interior decorating, on the other hand, does not require formal schooling. Not involved in the structural planning of a room, an interior decorator usually handles decor. During a renovation, for example, the decorator will be responsible for the general aesthetics of a room. This involves choosing a style, colors, textures, textiles, furniture, and accessories. If a client has a specific theme in mind, the decorator makes it happen. If not, however, a decorator will suggest themes based on the client’s wants and needs. Since an interior decorator does not make changes to the layout or structure of an area, they often work alone. A decorator will have contacts in specific industries such as textiles and furniture, but they usually have minimal contact with architects and contractors. In other words, a decorator will arrive after a room has been structurally completed. Then, their job is to decorate the room. Are there similarities between an interior designer and interior decorator? There are, in fact, many similarities between both jobs. First of all, designers may carry out jobs which are mostly related to decorating. Moreover, lots of interior decorators work closely with architects and contractors and are able to provide design services. Often used interchangeably, there is no clear line between an interior designer and interior decorator. Although the job descriptions themselves are different. Furthermore, you may find that many companies offer both services for clients, making the entire process easier and smoother for you. Should I hire an interior designer or an interior decorator? To answer this question, you should first assess your needs. What changes do you want to make to your home? Are you looking for a different look with new furniture and colors? Then you should hire an interior decorator. They will be able to help you decide on a theme or style that best suits your needs and fit in with your home. If, however, you want to make structural changes, such as breaking down a wall, increasing, or decreasing a room’s size, then a designer is who you need. An interior designer will be able to make changes that are functional and will also help in making decorative changes. In order to make the right choice, the decision should be based on one thing at the end of the day. That is, what are the changes you need to make and what are the services your designer or decorator are offering. So before you begin your home remodeling journey, you must figure out exactly what you are looking for. 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