Interior Designer vs Interior Decorator – who you should hire and why

The terms “interior designer” and “interior decorator” are often used interchangeably, but they involve different aspects of the design process. Your project scope of work and what you are looking to achieve will determine the type of professional you should be hiring. Most people don’t realize there is a difference and they don’t mean to use the terms improperly or offensively. I’ve been called a decorator many times in my career and it always stings a bit. What frustrates me more than anything though is when a decorator calls themself a Designer.

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Education, Training & Certification

To be considered an Interior Designer, you must undergo formal education and most have a Bachelors Degree in Interior Design or a related field. On the other hand, Interior Decorators do not have formal education in design and gain expertise through experience, workshops, or certifications in interior decorating. Some states require that in order to practice Interior Design they must pass an exam, NCIDQ ( Nation Council for Interior Design Qualification). Interior Designers are trained professionals with a deep understanding of design principles, color theory, spatial arrangements as well as code requirements, lighting design, life and health safety and more. There are many courses online that claim you will receive a “Certificate of Completion” which is NOT the same as being a Certified Designer.

I am a Certified Interior Designer through the State of California through the California Counsel for Interior Design Certification (CCIDC). I am a Certified Kitchen and Bath Designer through the National Kitchen and Bath Association.

In order to apply for these certifications I had to have the Education ( 4 Years and a Bachelors Degree) & Experience (4 Years) before I was able to apply to take the exam proving my knowledge and expertise in the industry. There are multiple paths for qualification depending on education level and years of experience.

Once the exam is passed, it is also required that I take Continuing Educations Units in order to maintain my Certification which has to be renewed every 2 years. The design world is constantly evolving as new products enter the market and new regulations restrict others. To be a Certified Designer means that we keep up with all the changes so we can better serve our clients.

Scope of Work

Interior designers are trained to handle both the aesthetic and functional aspects of a space. They can work on projects that involve structural changes, such as remodeling or renovating spaces. Interior designers often collaborate with architects, structural engineers and contractors. Not only do they know how to read and understand Structural Plans they create detailed drawings with dimensions of a space and how cabinetry, furniture and/or tile should be placed. They ensure that their designs comply with all safety and accessibility standards.

Interior decorators primarily focus on the aesthetic of a space. Their expertise lies in selecting color schemes, furniture, accessories, and decor items to create a visually appealing interior. While Interior Designers do love to accessorize and add the final touches to a space, that is often just a small portion of the services they provide.

Spatial Planning vs Furniture Selection

Interior designers are skilled in spatial planning which considers the flow of a space and optimizing its functionality. They may be involved in the design of layouts, floor plans, and architectural elements. Decorators specialize in choosing furnishings, fabrics, and decorative items that enhance the overall look of a room.

Who should you hire?

While both interior designers and interior decorators contribute to creating beautiful interiors, interior designers have a broader scope of work that includes spatial planning and architectural consideration in addition to furniture selection and home decor. Interior decorators focus primarily on aesthetics and decor. If you just want a living room refresh with some new sofa pillows, artwork or a rug, an Interior Decorator is more than capable of helping you. If you are thinking about removing a wall to open up a space and need a whole new furniture layout, you might want to hire and Interior Designer as well as an Architect and Engineer. You may also want a Kitchen and Bath Designer as opposed to an Interior Designer if you want to remodel your kitchen.

Types of Designers

Every Interior Designer operates differently depending on their business, their style and what works best for their clients. Depending on the complexity of your project, you may choose to work with one or more professionals to achieve your desired design goals. You may also need an Architect, Engineer or General Contractor working on the project. It is important to know the differences so that you can hire the right professional from the start.

FULL SERVICE DESIGNER

If an Interior Designer offers Full Service Design that typically means they will manage an entire renovation from beginning to end. They will create the initial design, assist you in selecting a General Contactor if required, manage the project by purchasing and coordinating all furnishings and fixtures and then decorate the final space. These designers can work on any space including Kitchens, Bathrooms, Living Rooms, Bedrooms, Etc. They have education and experience working with fabrics, furnishings, materials and fixtures.

KITCHEN & BATH DESIGNER

A Kitchen and Bath designer is a design specialty which often involves the extensive knowledge of appliances, tile, cabinetry and custom millwork. An Interior Designer might not be well versed with the intricacy of cabinet design and will need to source either a kitchen and bath designer, cabinet designer or custom cabinet maker in order to assist them with cabinet layout. If you hire a full service interior designer, they either understand cabinet design or will work with a cabinet designer on your behalf. If you hire an interior decorator to make selections, I suggest you also hire a kitchen and bath design professional or cabinet designer to assist you rather than relying on your contractor.

E- DESIGNER

Many Full Service Designers also offer E-Design Services. This type of designer will typically never come to your home. They typically provide 3d renderings or a mood board with links to items that you are able to purchase and then you are responsible to purchase and manage the project yourself. This is a great alternative for budget friendly jobs or if you love the aesthetic of a particular designer who does not physically service your area.

Every designer is different and has a particular skill set that works for their business and the services they offer. Although most designers are hired based on their aesthetics and portfolio, it is important to recognize how much knowledge they have about the products they are specifying for your home. At the end of the day you don’t just want your project to look beautiful, but also last for years to come.