Interior Designer or Interior Decorator? What's the Difference?
The Yellow Pages has one category for both interior designer and interior decorator. The general perception is that designers and/or decorators focus on appearance and decor. That focus is correct, for decorators.
The work of an interior designer requires an in depth body of knowledge covering a wide range of topics. The subtle shift in the choice of word between decorator and designer translates into a much larger spectrum.
Interior designers are imaginative, creative and artistic. The same can be said for a decorator. There are many creative people that can decorate and they certainly don't need the help of a designer. That's because they are decorating. The step up from there is a big leap that encompasses a wide range of education, experience and examination. The work scope defines it best.
Decorators work with their clients to select the design elements of an interior such as paint, wallpaper, lights, furniture, and flooring. Interior decorators are concerned only with the surface appearance of a space and they are not required to consider building plans nor are they qualified to address codes issues.
Interior designers tasks include space planning, problem solving, green design, codes, project management, budgets, ergonomics/comfort, lighting, acoustics, surface design elements such as color and textiles. Computer Aided Design and drafting plans outline the work to be done by contractors and are vital to any project. Product knowledge on everything from appliances to window coverings must be constantly researched to keep current with changing trends and the array of manufacturers for any given item.
The aesthetic aspect of a design is the hallmark of how a designer's work may be evaluated. The road to a finished design involves a foundation that incorporates research, development, analytical skills, a command of technology, and knowledge of building mapped out by a designer that is a disciplined, organized and skilled business person. Together with this vast body of knowledge and aesthetic vision, interior designers work to develop design solutions that meet the needs of the people using the space while creating a space that is safe, functional and attractive.
Designers are often involved with planning from the very beginning frequently working with architects and other design professionals. Other consultants may also be brought in at any stage of the design and construction process. These extensive areas of concern become the defining difference between designers and decorators.
A relatively new profession, the standards of interior designer and the required qualifications have increased greatly over the past thirty years. Some of the earliest most highly regarded professionals were simply known as decorators. Design schools were almost non-existent and it seemed that if you had a flair for design, you could go to work.
Experience alone once was enough to enable membership in trade organizations such as the American Society of Interior Design [ASID] or the International Society of Interior Design [ISID]. For many years, a combination of experience and education qualified for professional membership.
For designers just starting out in the profession, a degree is now a requirement for application to become a member of the most respected trade organizations. As the range of responsibilities increases, those setting the standards for the industry raise the bar.
Certification and examination are quickly becoming the benchmarks that identify one as a design professional. Licensing or registration is required in over 25 states and certification by passing the National Council for Interior Design Qualifications exam allows a designer to become a full professional member in trade organizations.
The body of knowledge a designer must draw from is broad, the work is highly detailed and the end result showcases work that goes far beyond decorating or furnishing a room. At first glance when evaluating a project it might appear that your project is quite simple and certainly couldn't include the long list of services an interior designer can offer. If you start to explore where to begin and the advance planning required before starting any work in the space, you'll soon appreciate having a designer to manage to project.
Most successful interior designers get their business though a network of referrals and if even if you find us listed in the Yellow Pages under Interior Designers and Interior Decorators, you'll know to ask the right questions to see which one you are really hiring for your next project. Interior Designer or Interior Decorator, there is a difference.
About the Author:
Looking for a great Furniture Store on Maui? Come visit our showroom at Swan Interiors 2103 W. Vineyard Street, Wailuku, Hawaii the next time you're on Maui or call us at (808) 243-3316. You can even visit our website at http://www.swaninteriorsmaui.com before you arrive.
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