Interior design vs. interior decorating: How do they differ?

Thinking about revamping your home? Whether it’s a complete overhaul or a smaller project like redesigning a nursery into a smart home office or personal gym, it’s important to know what service you need. Should you hire an interior designer or interior decorator? Though often mixed up, these experts offer different technical services tailored to varying needs. 

Understanding the difference between interior design vs. interior decorating is crucial for making the right choice for your project, whether it’s a full home renovation in a suburban neighborhood or a sleek office makeover in a downtown city center. This article will break down the distinction between interior design vs. decorating, to help you determine the service best suited to bring your vision to life.

What is interior design? 

Interior design is a discipline that transcends simply supplying aesthetics — it focuses on creating functional, safe, and efficient spaces that align with your needs and personality. Interior designers assess how the space will be used and the desired atmosphere, combining research and creativity to craft environments that are both beautiful and practical.

The difference between interior design and interior architecture is that interior architects focus on structural elements, while interior designers also integrate your personal style with functionality. They also consider layout, location, and social context, ensuring your space not only looks great but also functions smoothly with proper lighting, ventilation, and flow.

What is interior decorating? 

Interior decorating is all about enhancing a space’s aesthetic by selecting and arranging furniture, fabrics, and color schemes. If your space functions well but needs a style update, interior decorating is the perfect service. 

An interior decorator or house decorator works with your preferences to create a cohesive look using furniture, textiles, and accessories. While they don’t make structural changes, they excel at transforming a room’s ambiance and keeping up with trends. For example, to refresh your living room, a house decorator can help recommend new curtains, rugs, and accents to achieve your desired look within budget.

Interior design vs. decorating: When should you choose each?

Both interior designers and decorators offer creative expertise, but you don't always need to engage both. Here, we’ll look at the key factors to consider when choosing the right service for your project.

In terms of scope of work

The service scope differs significantly between interior designers and interior decorators. Interior designers manage the entire interior design process, from suggesting architectural changes like removing walls or altering layouts to working with architects and builders on house renovations or new projects. They create detailed plans and ensure compliance with building codes. 

In contrast, interior decorators focus on enhancing the aesthetics of an existing space, selecting and arranging furnishings, décor, and accessories, and making minor updates such as changing light fixtures or applying a different type of wall paint. They excel at improving the look and feel of a room without making structural changes.

In terms of project complexity

The complexity of your service request often dictates whether you need an interior designer or decorator. For more complex projects like structural changes, space planning, or key updates like a bathroom renovation with modern design trends, an interior designer is the best expert to hire. They manage reconfiguring layouts and collaborate with architects and engineers to ensure both beauty and structural integrity.

On the other hand, if your focus is purely on updating aesthetics without altering the structure, such as choosing between drapes, curtains or blinds, or enhancing your interior lighting design, an interior decorator is the expert to call. They specialize in refreshing your space with stylish, well-chosen elements.

In terms of skills

Interior designers and decorators offer distinct services. Interior designers typically hold degrees in interior design, with expertise in architecture, space planning, color schemes, and furniture design, allowing them to manage complex projects and navigate regulatory requirements. Often licensed, they oversee both technical and aesthetic aspects of a project. 

Interior decorators, on the other side, focus on creating beautiful spaces without structural changes. While formal education isn’t always required, many decorators build their skills and credibility through courses or certifications. Their strength lies in transforming rooms with appealing apartment color schemes and home décor and design ideas, making spaces visually captivating.

In terms of project involvement

Interior designers are deeply involved from the start, collaborating with architects and builders to shape the space. Their service covers the entire project lifecycle, from concept development to construction oversight, ensuring that every detail aligns with the design vision.

In contrast, interior decorators typically step in after the structural work is complete. Their focus is on selecting furnishings, color schemes, and décor, adding the final touches to bring the space to life. While their contribution is important to the space’s aesthetic, their involvement is more limited compared to an interior designer.

In terms of project duration

The project timeline generally depends on its scope. Interior designers, due to their more comprehensive service, often work on longer-term projects that can span several months to over a year. Coordinating with contractors, engineers, and clients, especially on complex projects, can extend the timeline.

Conversely, interior decorators focus primarily on aesthetics, allowing them to complete shorter-term projects. Their work can often be finished within weeks to a few months, making them ideal for quicker interior updates.

In terms of cost

Interior designer costs are generally higher, ranging from $50 - $500 per hour, due to the broader scope of their services and expertise. Their rates are often based on hourly charges, square footage, or a percentage of the total project cost, reflecting their full involvement from concept to completion.

Meanwhile, interior decorators usually charge less as their focus is more on decorative elements rather than structural changes. Their fees are typically based on an hourly rate or flat project fee, though costs can vary depending on the quality and quantity of furnishings and décor.

Book trusted interior design or interior decorating on Airtasker today

Does your project need structural changes, functional upgrades, or a complete renovation? Then it’s time to hire an interior designer! They’ll handle everything from layout and planning to construction oversight, ensuring your space is both beautiful and functional. 

But, if your goal is to achieve quicker, more aesthetic updates—such as selecting new furnishings, colors, or décor — an interior decorator can refresh your space with style and efficiency. 

Whether you need interior design or decorating, Airtasker makes it easy to find the right expert for the job. Just post a task, and wait for the local interior designers and decorators to give you a quote. Take the first step now to make your vision a reality!