Interior Decorating vs. Interior Design

From Pinterest to Houzz to Etsy, the internet is saturated with thousands of design & decor ideas, all with a simple Google search. Simply typing in “Mid-century modern kitchens” will get you hundreds of designs, shop links & services. Two results that come up as a result of these searches are “interior decorators” & “interior designers”. While they may sound interchangeable, this is not the case. What is the difference & why does it matter?

Interior Decorator

Interior decorating is the art of finding suitable fabrics, furnishings, art & decor to create a pleasing aesthetic environment. This could mean finding the perfect sofa for your den or “man-cave”, sourcing those velvet blackout draperies you needed or finding just the right rug for that awkward hallway space. With interior decorating, think materials, patterns, & colors all arranged beautifully. This can be an especially helpful skillset to have handy when you are staging a home, space planning or arranging furniture or just in need of a seasonal refresh in your space.

Interior Designer

The best way to define interior design is to quote the CIDQ or the Council for Interior Design Qualification.

“Interior design encompasses the analysis, planning, design, documentation, and management of interior non-structural/non-seismic construction and alteration projects in compliance with applicable building design and construction, fire, life-safety, and energy codes, standards, regulations, and guidelines for the purpose of obtaining a building permit, as allowed by law. Qualified by means of education, experience, and examination, interior designers have a moral and ethical responsibility to protect consumers and occupants through the design of code-compliant, accessible, and inclusive interior environments that address well-being, while considering the complex physical, mental, and emotional needs of people.”

In other words, properly trained interior designers understand the design process, the procedures for following local codes & ordinances, & are able to create & implement construction documents. They have a solid knowledge of construction & the built environment. This takes much professional development, both through education & work experience.

Who is better?

While an interior designer can also be an interior decorator, an interior decorator cannot be an interior designer without the proper qualifications. This does not mean, however, that one is better than the other. If you are looking to style your home with statement decor, luxurious art, throw pillows, blankets, & small furnishings, then an interior decorator may be just what you are looking for! If you are ready to demolish your old kitchen cabinets, install that huge marble island you’ve been dreaming of, & finally use all of your Pinterest idea boards, then an interior designer is better suited for you!

What if, though, you find yourself in need of both? An interior designer is more equipped to help you in both areas of the industry. Generally, interior designers are also involved with various trade accounts & can provide deep discounts for luxury items. They also may have trustworthy tradespersons that they work with & can recommend with confidence. Another great perk of hiring a designer is bringing the design to you. I guarantee that if you talk to a designer about your project, they already have tradespersons, vendors, manufacturers & more in mind for your specific project. There are a million & one options for subway tile, but a designer can find the perfect tile for your space, budget, style, & usage. When you think of interior designers, think of connections & resources to build your perfect space!

The “Take Away”

Both interior decorators & interior designers fill important roles within the design industry. Remember, an interior decorator can establish a style for your space, while an interior designer can build an entire aesthetic through the use of interior architecture. Deciding which one to work with is ultimately up to you.

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Article written by Gabriella Mendoza, an interior designer & kitchen + bath designer.