When it comes to transforming your home, the terms interior design and decorating are often used interchangeably. But while they share some similarities, they are not the same.
We’ll explain the differences of interior design vs. decorating to help you choose the right professional for your project—and avoid costly mistakes.
What is interior design?
Interior design is more than just style.. A professional interior designer is trained to create functional, safe, and beautiful spaces that meet both aesthetic and practical needs. Interior design involves space planning, construction knowledge, customized solutions, and also the design vision to make a functional space that is also aesthetically pleasing.
In a nutshell, Interior Design involves structural and functional changes to a space.
Decorating focuses more on the finishing touches. It’s the art of dressing up a room once the foundational design is in place. Decorating involves styling with accessories color and furniture. Decorating is the cherry on top that adds that personality to a room through thoughtful layering of decor.
In a nutshell, decorating involves surface-level changes to a space.
While it takes both to make your home beautiful, here’s a snapshot of the differences:
Scope:
Interior design typically requires renovation or structural changes.
Decorating focuses on visual aesthetics.
Training:
Depending on local requirements, Interior Designers may need formal education in space planning and layouts, architecture, and building codes.
Decorators typically do not require formal training.
Timing:
Design comes first (layouts, structures, finishes)
Decorating comes after (furniture, accessories, styling).
Function vs. Style:
Interior Design’s main focus is how a space works.
Decorating emphasizes how it looks.
How to choose?
Choosing between interior design and decorating depends on the project:
Hire a designer if: you’re remodeling, changing layouts, adding built-ins, or need a cohesive plan from start to finish.
Hire a decorator if: your space is functional for your needs but lacks the desired style, you need new furnishings, or want to update colors and accessories.
At ML Interiors Group, we know how intricately Interior Design and Decorating go hand in hand to create a beautiful home; that’s why we do both!
Whether a simple home refresh or a complete renovation, we can help! Give us a call today for your interior design or decorating needs.
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