Interior Design vs Interior Decoration, What’s the Difference?

When you begin your research phase of looking into home renovators and contractors, it can be quite overwhelming. Some services you find list their work as interior design while others are interior decorators, sometimes they are both. So what’s the difference? and more importantly, which one do you need to hire? Interior design and interior decorating are often mistaken for being the same thing, but they are not exactly interchangeable.

What is Interior Design?
The Interior Designers of Canada, the national advocacy association for the interior design profession, defines interior design as “…finding creative design solutions for interior environments while supporting the health, safety and well-being of occupants and enhancing their quality of life. Following a systematic and coordinated methodology including research, analysis and integration of knowledge into the creative process, interior design is a multi-faceted profession whereby the needs and resources of the client are satisfied to create an interior space that fulfils the project goals.” Designers are well versed in spatial planning, renderings and can also provide decorative consulting. Interior designers often work closely with architects and contractors to help achieve the look the client desires, whether that client is designing a residential home, an office, or a hotel.They require specific schooling and formal training, in some cases, may need to pass certain exams and certifications.

What is Interior Decorating?
Interior decorators uses their skills to embellish interior spaces that already exist, they do not physically create the structural layout of a space. The National Council for Interior Design Qualifications states, “Decoration is the furnishing or adorning of a space with fashionable or beautiful things.” An interior decorator often paints walls, hangs wallpaper, selects and places furniture, installs window treatments, and adds accessories such as throw rugs, lamps, throw pillows and wall art to a room. Interior decorators do not need to have formal training or schooling. They can help clients decide on interior styles, choose a color scheme, purchase furniture, accessories and select textiles and they’re often brought in to spruce up an existing space that needs to be updated or redone.

Which One is Right for You?
It all comes down to your needs for you home. Decorating can often be done without hiring an interior decorator – all you need is a little inspiration and your own two hands. For interior design needs, hiring experienced industry professionals will greatly improve the features of your home and make for an enjoyable experience from conception to completion. Georgian Renovations and our interior designers can help create the perfect blank canvas for your personal decorations. Transform your home through our key design services such as kitchen remodelling, spa-like bathrooms and even custom homes! Book your personalized design consultation and see what Georgian can do for you.