Interior designer vs. interior decorator. What’s the difference and should you hire one?

Many homeowners, and even some renters, choose to hire a professional to help them decorate their living spaces. After all, not everyone feels confident in their ability to decorate a home in a way that’s cohesive and attractive. These professionals are called interior designers or interior decorators and while these terms are often used interchangeably, they’re two different professions but with some things in common. So what’s the difference between the two and is it wise to hire one?

What sets apart an interior designer?

An interior designer will almost always have some kind of degree in design. Their specialty isn’t so much about decorating a finished space, but designing the entire space such as when first building a home or when remodeling it. They are a part of the process from blueprint to finished product and they handle many important tasks such as coordinating with architects/contractors, obtaining any required building permits, and making sure the project adheres to local building codes. While an interior designer isn’t required for a new home or remodeling project, an interior designer can help you think about the purpose of each room and consider the best structure and lighting to maximize the functionality and aesthetics of each room in your home.

Interior designers are also likely to belong to professional organizations and they most likely can get discounts from vendors who sell carpets, wood flooring, lighting fixtures, and other materials you’ll need in your home.

What can an interior decorator do?

Unlike interior designers, interior decorators don’t need a degree in design although some may have one. Interior decorators specialize in the finishing touches. They have an eye for scale, colors, and textures. Interior decorators typically start by listening to your ideas and looking at photographs you’ve found online to get an idea for your sense of style. Many will even accompany the homeowner to shop for accessories for the home.

Comparing costs

As you’d probably expect, an interior designer will cost more than an interior decorator. Expect to pay anywhere from $100 to $500 per hour for a professional designer depending on their level of education, years of experience, and their reputation for high-quality work. An interior decorator can cost anywhere from $50 to $250 per hour.

Should you hire one?

The answer will of course depend on your goals for your home. If you’re building a new home or planning a significant remodeling project and you want to get the most out of the design, the cost of an interior designer may be a good investment.

If you’re just trying to redecorate and would value the opinion of a person who specializes in it, then the cost for an interior decorator may be wise.

If you’re hoping to stretch your remodeling or decorating budget then you may want to forgo the expertise of a professional designer or decorator to get the most out of your remodeling or decorating budget. There are plenty of simple home improvement projects you can do on your own such as repainting or re-wallpapering. You can focus on simple upgrades like installing baseboard radiator covers, replacing light fixtures, upgrading kitchen and bathroom fixtures, or swapping out cabinet hardware. These kinds of upgrades won’t require the help of a professional but they’ll still make your home look like new.

 

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