When people hear "interior design" and "interior decorating" they naturally think they are the same thing. This is a common mistake homeowners make when referring to decorating their new home or redesigning their current space. So, what is the difference between the two? Which professional do you hire when it comes to your particular needs?

Interior Designers

Interior designers undergo specific schooling and study all the steps involved with the home building and interior designing process. In addition to learning about colours, patterns and fabric, an interior designer will also get hands-on experience curating, drawing and planning designs on the necessary computer programs for commercial and residential clients. An interior design course will also have an architectural element which is why architects will hire them to assist with floor plans and, from there, begin creating design concepts to review while paying close attention to functionality, safety, and efficiency. 

Interior design is not only about designing the room and adding furniture to make it look good. The space also has to be completely functional and accessible to all. Interior designers may be hired by anyone, whether they have a residential, commercial or industrial space in need of improvement, but they largely work with commercial clients.

Interior Decorators

An interior decorator doesn't necessarily go to school to be formally trained, though there are continuing education courses one can take to improve their knowledge. They typically focus on the aesthetics of the room rather than studying and incorporating an architect's floorplans. Interior decorators are typically hired after construction has been completed or if they're looking to revamp their interior. 

Their strength is in piecing together colours, patterns, and designs, and listening to client requests in order to bring their interior dreams to life. An interior decorator will have a good list of connections with people who make furniture or supply high-quality products, whereas interior designers will have connections with builders and architects. Commercial clients hire decorators, but homeowners work more closely with them.

Should I Hire An Interior Design Expert or A Decorator?

The difference between interior designers and interior decorators may not seem like much, but it's important to know who to contact for your particular project. You'll want to hire an interior designer if your commercial or residential design project includes designing around new windows and doors or unique structures. A designer will work closely with builders and architects to ensure that design, functionality, accessibility and safety codes are never compromised. This adds a layer of complexity to interior design as they must take into account how the space will be used and eventually bring in furniture and decor to complete the project.

Smitty’s Certified Interior Decorators are Available to Help You

At Smitty’s, we have a team of certified interior decorators who are ready to help you decorate your interior space with furniture and accessories that complement your home. Our free decorating service enables you to go on with your day-to-day while we pull all the pieces together for your new space.

Schedule a consultation with a Smitty’s Decorating Consultant: https://www.smittysfurniture.com/Decorator-Consulting.htm