So you want to make changes and need an Interior Designer….

When you decide to make any changes to your existing home or are moving into a new home that needs changes, there are a lot of things you should take into consideration.  It can be very overwhelming for most people, make sure you take the time to do some research.  For example; some professionals describe their work as interior design while others are interior decorators.  It’s important for you to know the difference, and to know what makes the most sense for you and your project timeline and budget.

Most people assume interior design and interior decorating are the same thing. Keep in mind; there are a few similarities between the two, however, there are also more than a few differences between the professions, some are subtle, and others are significant. As you look at what you need help with and are planning the changes to your home, it will help to understand the differences between professional designers and decorators.  Key things are their schooling, the credentialing, their services, and their clientele.  I ask, if you need a root canal would you go to the dentist or the hygienist to get it done?  While both professionals are very important in your overall dental care, they both specialize in different areas of care.  Also, wouldn’t want the dentist to perform the care the hygienist does!

Interior Designers

• Interior Design is a profession that includes attending an accredited college for formal training to obtain a degree. The work includes studying color and fabrics, computer-aided-drafting (CAD) training, drawing, space planning, lighting, furniture design, architecture and much more. After graduating, designers often apprentice with a registered and established interior designer before starting their opening there own business.  It also requires attending ongoing training to obtain the CEU credits to stay current on all aspects of design.
• Professional interior designers are required to pass the NCIDQ exam to become registered in most states or providence they work in.  Designers need to check the area and local government to determine what they need to do to become registered.
• Designers will do the space planning, create the design and drawings for the floor plans, including electrical, plumbing and cabinetry. Designers also create the paint and finishes selection schedules for the project.
• Interior designer work closely with the client, architects and general contractors needed to create the safe and beautiful spaces the client needs and wants.

Interior Decorators

• Decorators are not required to have a formal education in decorating.
• Even though no schooling is required to be a decorator, there are many classes available to learn the basic skills needed to provide the service.
• Decorators can go into spaces and come up with accents and accessories to improve the look and feel of the spaces.
• Decorators don’t typically work with architects, general contractors or the other trades in projects. Decorators are usually hired after the project is completed or near completion to add the finishing touches.