So, what’s the difference between an interior designer and an interior decorator? Let’s sort out the interior designer vs. interior decorator dilemma once and for all.

Interior Designer

Interior design is a mix of art and science. It requires an understanding of and skill in design, drawing, creativity, psychology, building codes, and architecture. Interior designers are responsible for creating functional spaces in a home and do this by understanding human behavior and learning about the lifestyle of the homeowner they’re working with. Interior designers will usually have a Bachelor’s degree and often need a license to practice.

Interior designers’ jobs involve a lot of personal interaction, both with the homeowner and with anyone else working on the structure of the space being renovated or built. They work closely with architects, contractors, and builders to ensure spaces in a home or building are optimized for comfort, functionality, and aesthetics.

Decorating is often an aspect of an interior designer’s job, but that’s just the tip of the iceberg. The best interior designers in Sarasota do it all – their job encompasses every aspect of creating a space, from the studs to the throw pillows. In short, designers do sometimes decorate, but the bulk of what they do is design.
 

Interior Decorator

On the other hand, decorators’ jobs have fewer dimensions – they don’t typically do any design work at all. Interior decorators usually come in after the spatial planning is done, and focus instead on style, theme, and overall feel of a space. An interior decorator can help you pick furniture, colors, fabric, light fixtures, and other décor to create a room that looks and feels beautiful.

Hiring an interior decorator can be a great way to boost your home’s value. Considering refreshing your bathroom. A consultation with a decorator is a great place to start.

Give an interior decorator a budget and a timeline, and they can make an old room look brand-new without tearing down a wall. Sarasota interior decorators don’t need a degree, but usually require some kind of certification to practice.

How to Choose Between the Two

When it comes to interior design vs. interior decorating, the decision doesn’t have to be a difficult one to make.

If you are doing a renovation, addition, or building from the foundation up, you probably need an interior designer. They will help you and the builders create a space that works for you and your family. If you use your house as both an office and a home, an interior designer will help you create a functional space that serves as both.

If you’re doing no structural work, but instead want to spruce up an existing space, hire an interior decorator. And don’t worry – they’re not all wallpaper and flowers. They can help you rearrange furniture, choose fresh colors and fabrics, and replace lighting to revive tired spaces. Typically, interior decorators work directly with the homeowner, as opposed to the contractors, so you won’t have to facilitate communication between industry professionals.

If you’re considering taking on home improvements this year, think about whether a designer or a decorator will best suit your needs. Remember the rule of thumb: if walls are coming down, a designer is probably your best choice.

For more information on Sarasota real estate, take a look at my listings. No matter what you choose, an Interior Designer or Decorator can help you add your own flair to your new Sarasota home.