Interior Designer vs. Interior Decorator: What is The Difference?

I get asked this question often and I can completely understand why it is so confusing to many people as some of the job roles for both Interior Designer and Interior Decorator overlap, and this is where the lines can get blurred. The two job titles are very similar but there is actually quite a difference when it comes down to it. Hopefully I can explain further to make it more clear for everyone as you decide which kind of help you need for your Interior project.

Interior Designer

Interior Design is the art and science of creating a functional space within a building upon studying and having a complete understanding of people’s behaviors, social environment, geography, and demographics. Designers use their knowledge to apply creative and technical solutions to the interior of a building that is functional, aesthetically pleasing, and useful to the occupants. All designs must adhere to code and regulatory requirements.

While the modern-day Interior Designer does aid in creating cohesive color palettes, furniture and textile sourcing, decorating, etc. The scope of the profession has become much more complex over time in that the decorating side of Interior Design has taken more of a back seat and the architectural and technical aspects of design are becoming more prominent. Many designers now use CAD (Computer Aid Design) to showcase 2D and 3D digital floorplans and renderings. Interior Designers will also work with a wide range of people from, Architects, Textile designers, furniture designers, graphic designers, contractors, builders, etc.

Interior Decorator

Interior Decoration is the furnishing of a space to create a look and feel that is aesthetically pleasing. A Decorator typically comes onto the scene after the structural planning and renovations are completed to create a cohesive look on the surface of the room. For new or existing spaces Decorators can aid clients in choosing color palettes and selecting furniture and accessories. Decorators won’t typically work with additional people like architects or contractors since Decorators don’t come on to the job until after completion of the interior build, however they can work with furniture manufacturers, textile designers, etc.

Education and Training

One main difference between Interior Designers and Interior Decorators is education. Interior Designers have formal educational training, generally a 2–4-year program resulting in a BA or MA of Art in Interior Design or Interior Architecture Design whereas Interior Decorators don’t necessarily need any training for a creative eye. Many Interior Decorators do have a certificate in a decorating program which can teach the basics of interior Design, or some decorators may have a college degree in related fields, but it is not a requirement to have a formal education for this profession.

For Interior Designers, upon completion of their degree, many need to pass the NCIDQ exam in order to practice as an Interior Designer in their state, however not all states require completion of the exam in order to be a practicing Interior Designer.

In Short…

Interior designers may decorate, but decorators do not design.