
Difference Between Interior Designer and Interior Decorator
In the process of transforming a space, numerous people interchange these two titles. Whereas the two roles differ in education, responsibilities, scope of work, and required skill sets. Just as one might be the homeowner, another might be the student considering a design career course: Such persons should know the difference between an interior designer and an interior decorator.
What is an Interior Designer?
An interior designer is a trained professional specializing in the arrangement, layout, functioning, and safety of interior spaces. Interior designers usually collaborate with architects, engineers, and contractors since the blueprint stages and, where allowed, can change the physical construction of a building.
Key Interior Designer Tasks:
• Planning space and improving layout
• Structural changes (e.g., moving walls, plumbing)
• Building code and safety regulations
• Working with CAD software to generate 2D/3D design drawing models
• Coordinating with contractors and architects
Interior designers are problem solvers, coalescing beauty and utility as a way to improve how people function with their environments.
What Is An Interior Decorator?
Interior decorators tend to the finishing touches and aesthetics of a space after the heavy structural work is done. They select furnishings, textiles, color schemes, and accessories to beautify an interior.
Some Key Interior Decorating Tasks:
• Furnishing a space with furniture, artwork, curtains, and rugs
• Choosing color palette and wall treatments
• Staging a room with accessories to convey a certain style
• Working on aesthetics without any structural changes
Decorators improve the aesthetic experience of the space and stay away from any technical or construction-related changes.
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Educational Background & Qualifications
Interior Designer Qualifications:
• A formal degree or diploma in interior design
• Training in architecture; spatial planning and construction
• Sometimes legally endorsed or obtained licenses in some areas
• Courses in AutoCAD, SketchUp, materials, lighting, and so on
Interior Decorator Qualifications:
• No formal degree in decorating is required
• Usually self-taught or trained in decorating through short courses
• Strong sense of style, color theory, and trends
Scope of Work and Project Involvement
With interior designers, the range of projects could be residential and commercial, including work on hospitals, offices, private homes, and hotels.
Interior decorators commonly work on homes, showrooms, or event decor.
Designers are involved in the project from the stage of working out the blueprints, whereas decorators come in after the construction or renovation is complete.
Key Skills, Tools, and Certifications
Role |
Key Skills |
Tools Used |
Interior Designer |
Technical drawing, spatial planning, building codes, budgeting |
AutoCAD, Revit, SketchUp, Photoshop |
Interior Decorator |
Color theory, trend analysis, visual storytelling |
Mood boards, swatches, digital design tools |
Interior Designer vs Decorator Salary Comparison
Salaries are subject to variations with education, experience, and location:
• Interior designers tend to earn more because of their extensive training and technical involvement.
• Decorators will earn less and have the chance to work freelance or work part-time, thus enjoying the flexibility.
When Should You Hire a Designer vs a Decorator?
Project Type |
Who to Hire |
New construction |
Interior Designer |
Structural renovation |
Interior Designer |
Style update (paint, furniture) |
Interior Decorator |
Budget-friendly aesthetic refresh |
Interior Decorator |
Choosing the Right Professional for Your Space
If the project involves working with layout changes, electrical changes, or perhaps space optimization, hire a licensed interior designer. For just a simple makeover of paint colors, new furniture selections, or some accessorizing of a room, an interior decorator would do wonderfully.
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Interior Design Course in Jaipur – Start Your Journey
Want to become a professional in this exciting field?
Shekhwati Classes & Computer provides the best interior designing course in Jaipur to build a career in the interior design industry.
Perhaps you are looking for:
• Interior designing classes in Jaipur
• Diploma in interior design Jaipur
• Interior design course in Jaipur
Shekhwati will provide expert faculty and training that students can apply in actual projects and go on to thrive as design professionals.
🔸 Training in CAD, 3D rendering, space planning, color theory, and more
🔸 Industry experts to train with
🔸 Affordable fees with job assistance
If this is the path you want to pursue seriously, Shekhwati Classes & Computer would be your trusted place to go in Jaipur.