Interior Designer or Interior Decorator – Which Should You Hire?
When it comes to office design projects, many people mistakenly believe that interior designers and interior decorators are one and the same. However, these two professions have distinct roles, and understanding their differences can significantly impact your project’s outcome.
While both play a part in creating beautiful spaces, interior design extends far beyond aesthetics, incorporating considerations of safety, functionality, and the overall well-being of employees and occupants.
What is the Difference?
According to the Council for Interior Design Qualification (CIDQ), interior designers are “qualified by means of education, experience, and examination” and are ethically responsible for ensuring that interior environments comply with codes, are accessible, and address the physical, mental, and emotional needs of users.
This goes well beyond decorating and encompasses a comprehensive approach to space planning and project management.
Training: Designers vs. Decorators
The biggest distinction between interior designers and interior decorators lies in their training and expertise. Interior designers are required to have a bachelor’s degree in Interior Design, complete internships, and, in most states, obtain licensing and certification. Their formal education prepares them to address everything from space planning and architecture to building codes and accessibility requirements.
On the other hand, interior decorators focus primarily on the aesthetics of a space, such as selecting colors, furniture, and décor. They don’t need formal training or certification because their role centers around making a space visually appealing without altering its structure or layout.
Skillset: What Each Professional Brings to the Table
Interior Designers handle much more than just making a space look good. They specialize in space planning, which involves analyzing how a space is used and reworking its layout for optimal functionality. Designers consider employee needs, work habits, and efficiency, ensuring that every square foot is maximized.
Beyond space planning, interior designers are experts in:
Architectural drawings and sight lines
Acoustics and lighting
Building codes and city regulations
Furniture, fabrics, and materials
They also manage the entire design project, coordinating with contractors, architects, and landlords to ensure everything goes smoothly.
Interior Decorators, on the other hand, come into the project after the major structural changes are complete. Their focus is on aesthetics and ambiance. They handle tasks like:
Choosing color schemes and furniture
Selecting window treatments and wall coverings
Arranging decorative items and hanging artwork
Decorators help refresh a space by bringing design inspiration to life, but they do not handle space planning or construction-related work.
When Should You Hire?
Interior Designer
If your office project involves relocating, remodeling, or making structural changes, an interior designer is the right choice. Designers will help you reimagine the entire space, ensure it’s functional and efficient, and manage the project from start to finish by coordinating with contractors and overseeing the execution.
Interior Decorator
If your project only requires cosmetic updates – such as changing the color scheme, updating furniture, or selecting decorative items – hiring an interior decorator might be the better option. They’ll help you achieve the aesthetic look you want without diving into structural or functional aspects of the design.
The Bottom Line: Design vs. Decoration
Interior designers are the experts to call for complex projects that require both form and function, while decorators are perfect for those who want to refresh or elevate an existing space. While interior designers can also take on decorating tasks, decorators do not engage in the design work necessary for comprehensive space transformations.
Still unsure which professional to hire for your next project? Contact Rieke Interiors for a free consultation, and we’ll help you determine the best solution for your office design needs!