Do you have any plans of redesigning your living space but feel unsure whether to contract an interior decorator or an interior designer? These terms can be used interchangeably but can bring confusion for someone who is not very familiar with them.
There are significant differences between the two professions that should be thoroughly examined in order to make an informed choice. So, let’s take a look at the subject of interior decoration and design.
What is an Interior Designer?
An interior designer plans designs and oversees the construction and installation of accessories in an interior space. Interior designer roles include working closely with other professionals such as engineers, contractors, and architects to ensure that the design is pleasing, safe, and functional to the client.
Interior designers typically consider various elements such as ergonomics, acoustics, and lighting when tackling this task in order to select the right accessories, materials, and furnishings that will create a harmonious look.
And, to become an interior designer, a person needs to have undergone training either in diploma or certificate to gain the necessary skills and knowledge. This training involves creating detailed plans and drawings, using CADs and other technical and soft skills that will help them carry out their work effectively.
What is an Interior Decorator?
An interior decorator is a person that specializes in creating aesthetic spaces by selecting and arranging furniture, accessories, and colors. They work in various setups such as residential, hospitality, and commercial spaces.
In addition, an interior decorator will provide advice on the best fabrics, paint colors, and other decorative elements.
To become an interior decorator a person doesn’t need to have formal training but may have a good background in design, art, or any other related field. In most cases, they rely on their own sense of taste and style to create designs. Although they may provide advice on interior design, their main focus is aesthetics.
Whom should you hire?
When deciding who to hire between an interior designer and an interior decorator, the decision should be based on your needs and goals. If you are planning to do a construction project or a major renovation to your space, finding an interior designer would be the ideal choice.
Interior designers are equipped with knowledge of creating appealing and functional spaces. If you want to update the look of your space with new accessories, a decorator can perform the work since it doesn’t require in-depth knowledge of design.
An interior designer will typically work on a more complex and larger project such as a residential or commercial space. If you need help in designing a business, or corporation then you might require the comprehensive services of an interior designer.
If your project is smaller and doesn’t have a lot of complexities involved, an interior decorator will be ideal. For instance, designing a single living room will be something a decorator can perform.
Generally, your choice will be determined by the scope of the project because it will outline various roles that need to be played at the site. The scope will also determine the types of interior designers or decorators needed.
Importance of hiring the right professional for your project
The success of your interior design project will majorly depend on hiring the right professional for the job. If you hire right you can accomplish the following benefits.
1. Save time and money
The right professional for your project will result in efficiency, thus saving time and money for you. For instance, an interior designer has full expertise concerning the whole project of interior design and will guide you in making informed decisions regarding budget, materials, and choice of color.
If your project involves the construction and installation of several accessories, an interior decorator might not be well versed to give you the right advice. As a result, you might end up wasting more time consulting or buying expensive materials for the work.
2. Achieve your vision quickly
The right professional for your project will enable you to achieve your vision without major hiccups. They will understand your needs and create a design plan that will match your expectations.
For example, if your project is large, you might consider hiring both professionals. Each one of them will apply their expertise in the areas that they are competent in. As a result, they are most likely to perform the job fast and give you the desired vision.
Collaboration between Interior Designers and Interior Decorators
Interior designers are trained to carry out the overall process of designing aesthetic and functional spaces. However, adding the value of an interior decorator could be a huge step that could upgrade the appeal of your space. An interior decorator can create cohesiveness in the project and bring about a stunning space.
This collaboration between an interior designer and an interior decorator can be important in a number of ways.
1. Combining skills
The interior designer can focus on the technical aspect of the project such as structural considerations. They can contract engineers to ensure that the plan is practical and feasible.
Meanwhile, the interior decorator will focus on bringing expertise in furnishings, decorative accents, and color schemes.
A combination of these two will bring about a high-quality project which will be more appealing.
2. Increased efficiency
Interior designers and decorators can work together to create efficiency by sharing review plans, and ideas and coordinating their efforts to create a design that fits the needs of a client. In cases where time is limited, this collaboration can be a great saver.
Bottom line
While both interior decorators and designers have a critical role in creating aesthetic spaces, there are major differences between the two professionals. Designers have a more technical focus while decorators have a more aesthetic focus.
If you are unsure of who to hire, it is critical to determine the scope of the work, the design process, and your goals. Usually, interior designers are a full package and there will be no harm when considering their services. They not only give comprehensive guidance about the scope of the project but also connect with other professionals in the field of interior design.
