If you’ve ever wanted to update your living space or embark on a major renovation, you’ve probably come across two key titles: interior designer and interior decorator. While they sound similar, they tackle different challenges. Designers often handle everything from blueprints to safety codes, whereas decorators focus on making a space look stunning. Here’s a clear, readable breakdown so you can figure out exactly which professional you need.
Roles at a Glance
Interior Designer
What They Do: Merge art and technical know-how to plan, design, and sometimes remodel interior spaces. They’re responsible for functionality, safety, and code compliance.
Typical Tasks:
- Studying floor plans, building codes, and accessibility requirements.
- Coordinating with contractors, architects, and engineers.
- Handling everything from layout and finishes to final furniture choices.
Required Know-How: A solid grasp of architectural structure, spatial planning, and material selection. Designers often have formal degrees, pass certification exams (like the NCIDQ), and may need a license to work on commercial or public spaces.
Interior Decorator
What They Do: Focus on the aesthetics — color palettes, furniture placement, decorative accents, and styling.
Typical Tasks:
- Suggesting paint colors, rugs, artwork, and drapery to refresh a room.
- Arranging existing or newly selected furnishings in an appealing way.
- Collaborating closely with clients on overall look and feel, but not structural elements.
Required Know-How: A keen eye for design and style, plus a solid understanding of furniture arrangement, color theory, and trends. Formal education isn’t mandatory, but some decorators pursue certificate programs or join professional associations.
Education & Certification
Interior Designers
- Usually have a bachelor’s degree in interior design or a closely related field.
- Programs may be accredited by the Council for Interior Design Accreditation (CIDA).
- Can earn professional credentials by passing the NCIDQ exam, which is often needed for licensing in states that regulate interior design.
Interior Decorators
- Formal degrees aren’t required, although many decorators take courses to hone skills in color, fabrics, furniture styles, and more.
- Can choose to get certified (e.g., Certified Interior Decorators International) to boost credibility, but there’s no widespread legal mandate.
Scope of Work
Interior Designer
- Technical Projects: Renovations, new builds, relocating walls, adding lighting fixtures, ensuring everything meets building codes.
- Project Management: Overseeing timelines, budgets, subcontractors, and final installations.
- Collaboration: Often works with architects, engineers, and contractors on large-scale projects.
Interior Decorator
- Aesthetic Overhauls: Selecting furniture, color schemes, fabrics, and décor.
- Styling & Arrangement: Refreshing rooms, staging homes for sale, and making existing layouts more visually appealing.
- Client-Focused: Spends time understanding personal tastes and budget constraints to create a cohesive, inviting environment.
Services & Specialties
| Service | Interior Designer | Interior Decorator |
| Space Planning & Layout | Yes | Limited (mostly furniture layout) |
| Structural Changes & Renovations | Yes | No |
| Technical Drawings & Blueprints | Yes | No |
| Lighting, Materials, & Fixture Selection | Yes | Mostly decorative fixtures only |
| Custom Architectural Detailing & Millwork | Yes | No |
| Project Management & Construction Admin | Yes | No |
| Color Consultation & Styling | Yes | Yes |
| Furniture & Decor Sourcing | Yes | Yes |
| Home Staging & Seasonal Decorating | Limited | Yes |
Earning Potential
Interior Designer: Median salary in the U.S. is around $60k-$65k annually. Higher-end specialists can exceed $100k, especially with advanced certifications or if they run their own firm.
Interior Decorator: Often hourly-based, generally $20-$45/hr. Annual incomes can range from $30k-$50k, though top-tier decorators with strong reputations and client bases can earn more.
When to Hire Whom
Pick an Interior Designer if:
- You’re planning major structural changes or new construction.
- You want someone to handle everything from the layout to the final details, including safety and code compliance.
- Your project involves technical aspects, such as electrical plans or collaborating with architects and contractors.
Pick an Interior Decorator if:
- You only need a style refresh — no tearing down walls required.
- You’re looking for help with color coordination, furniture selection, and overall visual appeal.
- You want to stage a home for sale or add seasonal décor for a fresh look.
Final Thoughts
Though the lines can blur, interior designers and interior decorators each have unique strengths. If your project involves structural work, building codes, or anything technical, an interior designer is your go-to. If it’s strictly about giving a space a new look and vibe, an interior decorator can work wonders on color palettes and décor. Clarify your goals and budget before deciding which professional to hire — you’ll end up with a space you truly love.
In short: If you want to rework your floor plan and do a full-scale renovation, hire an interior designer. If you just want to pick perfect couches and curtains, go with an interior decorator. Either way, you’ll benefit from professional insight that takes your place from “meh” to “amazing.”
Read more:
10 Best Luxury Interior Designers in Los Angeles 2025 (Top Must-Knows)
Nick Oscar
