What is the difference between a decorator and an interior designer?

It is common to confuse the roles of an interior designer and an interior decorator, and often, their terms are used interchangeably. However, while both work to beautify and enhance the spaces in our homes, the difference between interior decorator and interior designer is fundamental and lies in their expertise, responsibilities and the scope of their projects. Understanding these distinctions is crucial to knowing who to turn to depending on the needs of your space.

What is interior design?

Interior design is a discipline that goes beyond mere aesthetics; it is an art and a science that seeks to thoroughly understand human behavior and how it interacts with the space within a building. An interior designer possesses in-depth architectural knowledge and experience in the organization and management of spaces.

These professionals are trained to understand the internal structure of any building and its functionality. Their work involves optimizing the structure and designing any structural modifications. This includes overseeing changes to walls, lighting systems or any arrangement that affects the foundation of the space. An interior designer considers not only aesthetics, but also how people's psychology and behavior influence design, seeking to create environments that benefit users. This deep structural and functional understanding is what makes a big difference between a decorator and an interior designer.

What is interior decoration?

On the other hand, interior decoration is mainly focused on furnishing and beautifying a space, bringing aesthetic value through creativity and innovation. The work of a decorator begins once the interior structure of a building is already defined.

Decorators specialize in the selection and arrangement of elements such as furniture, accessories, vases, paintings, colors, textures and lighting fixtures. Their goal is to transform the space so that it follows trends, enhances a particular style and generates very specific sensations. Unlike interior design, decoration does not deal with structural aspects or major renovations that involve changing the architecture of the place. Its focus is purely aesthetic and ambience.

The main difference: Structural design vs. environmental aesthetics.

In short, the difference between decorator and interior designer is this:

• The interior designer deals with the structural and functional aspects of the space, requiring more extensive studies and knowledge of architecture, renovations and the dynamics of spaces. He or she focuses on how people will use the space and how the structure can be optimized.
• The interior decorator, on the other hand, focuses on making the space more pleasant and welcoming through the selection of decorative elements, furniture and accessories. His job is to visually transform the environment once the structural base is defined.

Despite their differences, it is important to note that both disciplines are complementary. In many projects, the work of a designer may require the collaboration of a decorator, and vice versa, to achieve an integral and harmonious result.

At Studio by Clikaliaas we are specialized in integral reforms, all our projects are designed by a professional interior designer. Only in this way it is possible to achieve that the reforms transmit and are adapted to the lifestyle of the people who will inhabit. So, if you are looking for a study of reforms that you develop a total reform project without cost, ask for a quote and in just a few days you will have the reform of your dreams closer.