Are Interior Designers And Decorators The Same? What Are Their Differences?

Last updated on December 14, 2015

Those who are unfamiliar with the industry often make the mistake of thinking that interior designers and decorators are the same career – but it should be noted that these terms are not at all interchangeable and actually describe two very different professions. Whilst they do have their similarities, there are a number of differences between interior designers and decorators – we have outlined as many of these as we can in this article.

Interior Designers

• Education – This is a profession that requires very specific schooling and formal training. Students are required to complete a university course (a minimum of 3 years) where they will learn about colour and fabric, computer-aided design (CAD), drawing, space planning, furniture design, and architecture. After graduation, most designers will work with a registered and established company before starting their own. 
• Responsibilities – Designers are actually able to assist in a number of areas that comprise the design and renovation of a space. They can help with every step of the process, from drawing up initial floor plans and spatial planning down to the placement of decorative accents. They aren’t responsible for just enhancing the look of a room, they actually enhance the function of the space. 
• Associates – You will find that designers work closely with architects and contractors to help them achieve the look a particular client is trying to achieve. They will work on a variety of projects, from residential homes and offices through to hotels and other interior spaces.

Interior Decorators

• Education – This is a profession that does not require any formal training or schooling; they will gain most of their knowledge and develop most of their skills on the job. Whilst it is possible to undertake TAFE and short courses that deal with decorating, this is not mandatory for a career as a decorator. They are focused on the aesthetics of the space and will often shadow a mentor or employer before setting off on their own. 
• Responsibilities – Decorators are actually the perfect choice if you are looking for someone to come into a room and whip it into shape. They can help clients to decide on a particular style, choose a colour scheme, purchase furniture and accessorise their homes. They are often brought in when an existing space needs to be made over or updated, especially if the client is planning to sell. 
• Associates – You will find that decorators don’t generally work with architects or contractors, since the structural work is usually complete by the time they join the team. They are, however, known to work with furniture makers, upholsterers, and other industry professionals.

Choosing between an interior designer and decorator for your project will depend entirely on your needs – if you desire any structural changes (such as the removal of a wall, movement of plumbing, or addition of windows and doors) you should contact a designer; if you just want some help deciding on a look (such as choosing wallpaper or paint, picking window treatments, or choosing lighting and accessories) you should contact a decorator.