We love that the digital age has brought us inside each other's homes through photos and videos in ways prior generations haven't had access to. But with the rise of self-proclaimed home decorators and DIY remodels on social media, how can you know if you're hiring someone you can trust to execute a comprehensive design vision? There's no shortage of options, so we want to help you make a thoughtful hiring decision you can feel confident in. 

People often assume the terms interior designer and interior decorator are interchangeable, but there is a distinction between designers and decorators. Let's break it down.

Higher Education and Credentials

A defining characteristic of interior design is that it requires formal training, ideally completed in an accredited four-year program. After extensive coursework on space planning, interior architecture, codes, art history, furniture design, color study, fabrics, computer-aided design, and Construction Documentation (to name a few!), designers will receive their higher education degree. Some coursework also includes the business aspect of design, including budgets, which is a critical aspect of each project.

Some states have laws that require interior designers to be licensed or registered, documenting their training. All of the Designers at Bright Designlab are formally educated in Interior Design. A couple of rockstar designers at Bright have obtained their NCIDQ (National Council for Interior Design Qualification) certification, including our Principal Designer, Alissa Pulcrano and Interior Designer, Erica Parrish. This deserves some hype because it means they've passed the rigorous exam that tests their competency in building systems, codes, construction standards, contract administration, design application, project coordination, and professional practice.

Aesthetics and Decorative Details

Interior decorators focus on furnishing and enhancing a space with decorative elements that fulfill an aesthetic goal. Decorators will work with your existing space, embellishing it by guiding color schemes, furniture, and art decisions. Because they aren't involved in renovations or structural changes, there is no licensure requirement to practice as a decorator. Both designers and decorators partner with upholsterers, furniture companies, and other industry professionals that provide home decor services. 

While both have their place, it's essential that the questions about experience and training are asked prior to embarking on a Client-Designer relationship. Some decorators have adopted the Interior Designer title, so it is important not to rely on this alone. Ensure you're aware of their experience level, the team they work with, and the process when there is so much at stake in a comprehensive remodel.

What's the Difference?

The roles of designers and decorators do overlap, but there are certain services designers offer that distinguish them in function and experience. Interior design is defined by The University of Iowa's School of Applied Human Sciences as "a multi-faceted profession in which creative and technical solutions are applied within a structure to achieve a built interior environment." 

Think of a designer's purpose as a more in-depth overhaul, able to address full interior planning through a comprehensive process, while a decorator serves to assist you in carrying out your design inspirations with more of a surface-level revamp. Designers are in communication with the architects, contractors, structural engineers, and developers on a project to reimagine interior layouts and create a functional space from "full gut" to finish. Interior decorators don't create new interior spaces but can still make a huge impact by outfitting a space stylistically and choosing furniture, wall coverings, accessories, and rugs.

What Do You Want to Accomplish?

Choosing the right professional depends on more than just the job title and will come down to how the skills of the individual professional can meet your needs and budget. Hiring a designer is best if you're considering a remodel while bringing in a decorator would be a great fit for a room makeover. 

It's a good idea to look at the professional's portfolio you're looking to hire, contact their references and read their reviews, and have questions prepared for your consultation. Whether you partner with a designer or a decorator, hiring a professional to help you update your home will revitalize your space in a way that positively enriches your environment and daily life.