Interior Design vs. Decorating

Interior design and interior decorating are two separate professions that often overlap. Both are concerned with creating rooms that are functional and aesthetically pleasing. Interior designers and interior decorators must be well-versed in the principles and elements of good design, and must understand how to apply these concepts to meet the needs of clients. But while one understands the underlying structure of architecture, the other is concerned with elements of decoration.

Function

The difference between designing a room and decorating a room is influenced by function and by intent. To design a room is to consider factors such as the size of door and window openings, the placement of electrical outlets and closets, and the types of furnishings needed to meet the needs of the occupants. The design of a room is influenced by local codes, architecture and ways the room will be used.
To decorate a room is to create a color palette, choose fabrics and furnishings, plan furniture arrangement and choose accessories for the space. It is no less difficult than designing a room; it is just a different step necessary to reaching the final goal of a comfortable and functional space.

Types

Interior designers are concerned with ergonomics, the relationships between humans and furniture and associated products. There are interior designers who specialize in designs for special-needs populations, senior citizens, schools and other areas in which particular needs must be met. But ergonomics are not confined to select groups. The application of ergonomics is used in all aspects of interior design.
The interior decorator is less concerned with ergonomics and more concerned with aesthetic appeal of furnishings and the overall space. Decorators may specialize in single elements of decor such as color application, furniture arrangement or fabric selection. Interior decorators, however, usually are hired to redecorate an entire space, and so they must be well-versed in all the elements and principles of design.

Identification

The two professions often overlap. Interior designers are hired for redecorating projects; in this both professions share the same duties. But an interior decorator would be an inappropriate choice for a remodel or new home project. Often, architects collaborate with interior designers with whom they have working relationships. This ensures that any room design will be functional and compatible with the architecture.
Interior designers in most states are required to be licensed by the National Council of Interior Design Qualification (NCIDQ). They are often members of the American Society of Interior Designers (ASID). To achieve membership and be licensed, an interior designer has attended an accredited school and obtained a degree and continues his education to maintain the license.
An interior decorator need not be licensed, nor is she required to have a degree. Because the duties of an interior decorator do not involve the infrastructure of the building or residence, there is no need for licensing. There is, however, an organization that provides certification for decorators. Interior designer Ron Renner founded the Certified Interior Decorators International (CID) in 1997. Members have completed a certified program from an accredited school.

Significance

Both professions are experiencing an increase in job demand. Changes in how people live, from the need for home offices to homes that can be reconfigured for life changes, have created a need for specialists in design and decorating.
People who work at home need their homes to provide appropriate space and appeal for the situation. People with extended families have specific needs for room function and traffic flow. Couples whose children are grown want their homes to reflect the change in lifestyle. For all of these reasons and more, designers and decorators are in demand.

Benefits

The cost of hiring an interior designer or a decorator may seem prohibitive for those on a tight budget. A high-end interior designer can charge as much as $300 an hour or more. But not all designers charge such high fees, and decorators can be an affordable alternative.
The benefits of expert advice are many. Those with busy lifestyles who simply don't have time to plan, shop, select and oversee a large-scale home improvement project will ultimately profit from hiring an expert. Mistakes and delays are on the designer, not the client. Hiring an interior decorator to aid in a more scaled-down makeover also reduces costly mistakes. Usually less-expensive than a designer, a decorator can be hired for a one-time consultation or to oversee the project. In either profession, clients often have the option to choose from a variety of offered services. This can make their services more affordable for homeowners.