Interior Design vs. Interior Decorating

Although the words seem interchangeable, they are actually very different. Continue reading to learn more about both of these fantastic careers.

"What else is design but a method of alchemy... to transform the ordinary, the quotidian, or the just plain unworkable into something beautiful, something rare, something usable."

- The Alchemist

Prior to studying in design classes in college I never knew that there was a difference between the two fields. I would look at HGTV and home garden magazines and assume everyone was designers/ decorators. I thought they meant the same, but had various names. But Hun, I couldn't be more wrong. after one week of classes I had already learned that it was a huge misconception. One that was only heightened by the lack of distinction given on renovation shows, where many of them are not actually designers, they are decorators. Now this may not seem so important, but in reality, knowing the difference can prevent you from hiring the wrong professionals for a job, or even applying to the wrong job if you are in the field yourself. So with this common misconception, i have decided to help you all out by explaining some of the differences....

Although they both serve similar purposes that involve the decoration and organization of an interior space to look aesthetically pleasing and function extremely well, they differ in many other aspects. According to the Council for Interior Design Qualifications, " Interior design is the art and science of understanding people's behavior to create functional spaces within a building. Decoration is the furnishing or adorning of a space with fashionable or beautiful things. In short, interior designers may decorate, but decorators do not design."

A further look into the comparisons between the two fields demonstrates the substantial difference when considering responsibilities and requirements. For example, the educational and legal responsibilities that are placed on interior designers are much greater than that of an interior decorator. To legally be considered an Interior Designer, one must meet certain qualifications, some being an educational background in the field, as well as passing certification exams given by several councils such as the NCIDQ. Many states have passed laws that require aspiring interior designers to become licensed or registered to their specific guidelines. This is a substantial difference between designers and decorators since decorators do not require and training or certifications.

 Interior Designers are responsible for applying creative and technical solutions within a space that is functional, attractive, and beneficial to the users quality of life. They must do this all while adhering to a long list of codes and regulatory requirements set by the local and federal government and encourage the principles of environmental sustainability. Designing a project is surely not easy when considering all that is involved with each job, regardless of the size. Each designer must follow a systematic approach that includes countless research, analysis, and integration of that information into each project in a creative way that pleases the client.

The list of differences between each field is extremely long but here I made a list to easily show some of the major ones:

• Interior Designers are often involved with the entire design process from the beginning, usually working along with the architects, contractors, electricians, etc. A designer's job is to help make a interior space that functions however necessary for the future occupants of the space. Things considered in this process will include things like: light, sound,  entrances, construction materials, as well as building codes and structural considerations.   

• Interior Designers usually have vast knowledge of the History of Art, Architecture, Furniture and Design. They can put everything into a historical context, and because they have studied all of the influential periods, styles, trends, motifs, etc. they can better apply and manipulate them to positively affect the space at hand. 

• Interior Decorators primarily focus on the furniture layout, colors, textures, and textiles of a room. They create a style for the room to make it look FABULOUS!

Below is a chart I found that sums up some other differences between the two. So there you have it. Take a look, consider what differences interest you, because it can help you decide which field although so closely related yet vastly different, is right for you. Go ahead, DESIGN OR DECORATE, your choice! Whatever you do, have fun with it!!! After all, careers are meant for your to express your passion!

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