Often referred to as an INTERIOR DECORATOR, sometimes one feels the need to explain the differences between that and an INTERIOR DESIGNER. I thought a definition of INTERIOR DESIGNER vs INTERIOR DECORATOR might be a good way to see what we are all about!
An interior designer is usually involved with a building project from the beginning, perhaps even working with the architect. His job is to help create functional interior space by understanding how the inhabitants will use each room. He may consider light, sound and other design aspects such as balance. In the case of interior designers, this work is often done on a standalone basis, usually to improve on existing buildings rather than as a part of the initial design process. Ultimately, an interior designer’s role is to create functional, safe, efficient, comfortable and beautiful interior spaces that are fit for their purpose.
An interior decorator isn’t involved with the design of the building or the layout of the interior space. He is focused entirely on the furniture, colors, textiles and textures of a room. His job is to capture the personality and style of the residents and express it in their space. While interior decorators study and work on many of the same things as interior designers, their job typically doesn’t involve moving walls, installing services or planning for things like safety and utility. This is really the main difference – interior decorators are exclusively concerned with decorating what’s already been built.
In much of today’s design the need to make spaces function is often as or more critical as the ultimate look of the space. A beautiful room that doesn’t meet seating requirements will always create a negative sensation for the owner. A great designer will take this into consideration from the very beginning.
Knowing how the space will ultimately be used, the purpose and immediate needs are goal #1. The future growth and changes to be expected are also part of the equation. Considering the investment that these projects may often require, a good designer will usually provide solutions that will maximize the benefits of the suggested plan for now and future needs.
And the plan. Knowing how the project will “turn out” is really a benefit for using an interior designer who has experience that meets great results. The designer will collect information, research and develop a plan that allows the client to visualize and feel confident in the decisions that will be made. The goal is to know the result BEFORE the work starts at a pace that is comfortable for the client.
As necessary and sometimes offered as the specialty, the INTERIOR DECORATOR will often have great level of taste, knowledge of styles, fabrics, and textiles. These all benefit the outcome of creating a beautiful space. Often, these are existing spaces that simply are incomplete. Very often (also) these clients need an outside set of eyes to offer insight into a paint color or a great mix of fabrics to complete a sofa that marries well into an existing environment.
Often the use of these services reduce the number of “costly” mistakes, save clients time, save clients from that overwhelming feeling, and provide confidence in making great decisions.
Considering the use of these services are often more affordable than most realize and the return for the investment is always worthwhile. And while the decorator offers specialized services like lighting, furniture selections, colors, etc., the designer incorporates these ideas into a complete plan offering additionally layouts, budgets, and timelines.
