The Difference Between an Interior Designer and Interior Decorator

What is an Interior Designer?

An interior designer is a professional who is well educated in the use of space and will have knowledge of architectural elements. They understand the science of people’s behaviours and seek to accomplish a goal within the space presented to them. This could look like increasing productivity in an office by optimising the flow of the room or reducing stress or sound pollution in a call centre. Working with these functional spaces could include shapes and angles of walls, the materials used for flooring and even the use of lighting. All these aspects of interior design will have an impact on the wellbeing and mood of those occupying it and may seek input from health and safety experts and the influence of legislation and regulations for roles.

What is an Interior Decorator?

An interior decorator creates the tangible elements of a room and are skilled at transforming a rooms cosmetic state. They come in after an interior designer has created the space and make it a visually appealing location that fits the needs of the client and those utilising the space. An interior decorator is a skilled individual who is experienced in the application of decorating techniques. A decorator does not require formal education to work in the commercial decorating sector, as they weigh less on the needs of following health and safety legislation and their skills are taught majorly through practice. The start of their career may look like an apprenticeship working for a local tradesman. The trades of an interior decorator could look like plastering, painting, and decorating, working with interior mouldings, flooring, and tiling.

Should I hire an interior decorator or an interior designer?

Who you hire depends greatly on the needs of your project. You should get an interior designer in before a decorator, any structural changes or renovations would require an interior designer due to their knowledge of architecture and psychology of how a room works best for its occupants. However, if the foundations of your space are laid, then a decorator can be brought in to add cosmetic value and finish the area off to a high standard.

Be sure to consider any health and safety elements to your construction, as you may need to have fire doors installed by a certified professional. Some interior decorators will be trained to install fire doors and lay specialist anti-slip flooring, so it is worth investigating the full skills of your commercial tradesmen to get an efficient and cost-effective result.