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February 5, 2025

The Difference Between Interior Designers and Decorators

When you want to change your living space, you might wonder if you need an interior designer or a decorator. These jobs may seem alike, but they have big differences that can really affect your home project. Knowing these differences is important for making a good choice that fits what you need, how much you can spend, and what you want to end up with. Let’s look at interior design and decoration to help you pick the best option for you, exploring what each job does and how they can help make your ideal living space.

Key Differences: Interior Designer vs. Decorator

  • Education: Interior designers usually need formal education, decorators may not
  • Scope: Designers can change structural elements, decorators focus on looks
  • Licensing: Many places require licenses for interior designers, but not for decorators
  • Technical Knowledge: Designers understand building rules, decorators may not
  • Project Involvement: Designers often work from the start of building, decorators usually begin after

Defining the Roles: Interior Designer and Decorator

To understand the difference between an interior designer and a decorator, it’s important to define their roles clearly. Choosing the right professional can make a big difference in getting the home look and function you want. Each role brings special skills and views to a project, affecting everything from the layout to the final decorative touches.

Modern living room with sleek wooden cabinetry, built-in shelves and a minimalist white coffee table.

An interior designer is a complete space planner who can create and change spaces. They know a lot about building rules, structural things, and how spaces work together. They do more than just make things look nice – they also make sure spaces work well and follow rules. Interior designers often work with architects and builders, bringing a complete approach to the design process.

A decorator focuses mainly on making a space look good through colours, furniture, and decorations. Decorators are good at creating matching visual themes, picking the right furniture and decorations, and arranging them to look the best. While they may not handle big changes to the structure, they can really change how a space looks and feels through surface-level changes.

Educational Background and Qualifications

One of the biggest differences between interior designers and decorators is in their education and qualifications. This difference is important in how they approach projects and what services they can offer. Understanding these differences can help you match your project needs with the right professional’s skills.

Education Requirements

Interior designers usually need formal education, often a bachelor’s degree in interior design or something similar. In the UK, many interior designers have degrees approved by the British Institute of Interior Design (BIID) or the Society of British and International Design (SBID). These programs cover many subjects, including space planning, building systems, materials, computer design, and project management. This thorough education gives designers the technical knowledge and creative skills to handle complex design challenges.

Many interior designers also get more certifications and keep learning to stay up-to-date with industry trends, sustainable practices, and changing building rules. This ongoing education ensures they can offer the latest solutions and follow the newest safety and accessibility standards in their designs.

On the other hand, interior decorators may not need formal education. While some decorators take courses in colour theory, furniture styles, or space planning, many learn through experience and natural talent. The lack of formal education requirements allows for a wide range of backgrounds among decorators, often leading to unique views and creative approaches to design challenges.

Some decorators might have backgrounds in art, fashion, or other creative fields that influence their style sense. Others might develop their skills through apprenticeships or on-the-job training. While not required, many decorators choose to join professional groups or get voluntary certifications to boost their credibility and stay updated with industry trends.

Scope of Work: What Each Professional Brings to the Table

The work of interior designers and decorators can overlap, but there are clear differences in how they approach projects and what they can do. Understanding these differences can help you decide which professional is best for your project, making sure you get the right expertise for your specific needs.

Modern living room with a white sofa, abstract wall art, floor lamp, and minimalistic decor in a bright, airy space.

Interior designers take a complete approach to space planning. Their work is extensive and often starts at the earliest stages of a project, sometimes even before construction or renovation begins. They can:

  • Create structural plans and changes, working closely with architects to make the best use of space
  • Develop complete design ideas that address both looks and function
  • Work with architects and builders throughout the construction or renovation process
  • Handle technical aspects like lighting design, acoustics, and ergonomics
  • Make sure everything follows building codes, safety rules, and accessibility standards
  • Develop complete project timelines and budgets, often managing the entire design process
  • Choose materials, finishes, and fixtures that match both the design vision and practical needs
  • Create detailed technical drawings and 3D models for client approval and contractor guidance

Decorators, on the other hand, focus on the visual and aesthetic elements of a space. Their expertise includes:

  • Selecting colour schemes that create the desired mood and complement existing architecture
  • Choosing and arranging furniture and accessories to maximize both style and comfort
  • Creating matching room styles that reflect the client’s personality and lifestyle
  • Enhancing the overall feel of a space through fabrics, artwork, and decorative elements
  • Advising on window treatments, including curtains, blinds, and other drapery options
  • Finding unique decor items and custom pieces to add character to the space
  • Styling rooms for maximum visual impact, including arranging accessories and creating focal points
  • Providing guidance on lighting fixtures and placement to enhance the room’s atmosphere

While both professionals aim to create beautiful spaces, interior designers have the technical knowledge to ensure that the design is not only good-looking but also functional and follows building codes. They can handle structural changes, space planning, and complex renovations that may be beyond what a decorator can do.

Decorators are great at transforming how a space looks and feels without necessarily changing its basic structure. Their keen eye for colour, texture, and proportion allows them to create visually stunning environments that reflect the client’s style and preferences. While they may not handle major renovations, their ability to refresh and reinvigorate existing spaces can be truly transformative.

Project Management and Execution

The way interior designers and decorators manage and carry out projects can be very different. This difference is important when you’re thinking about which professional to hire for your home improvement project, as it affects the overall project timeline, coordination with other professionals, and how much you need to be involved as the client.

Interior designers often take on a more complete project management role. They can oversee the entire renovation process, from initial idea to final execution. This extensive involvement includes:

  • Creating detailed floor plans and 3D models using advanced software to visualize the space before any work begins
  • Coordinating with contractors, architects, and other specialists to ensure all aspects of the design are properly implemented
  • Managing timelines and budgets, often acting as the main point of contact for all parties involved in the project
  • Ensuring compliance with building codes and regulations throughout the design and construction process
  • Overseeing the selection and procurement of materials, fixtures, and furnishings
  • Conducting regular site visits to monitor progress and address any issues that arise during construction or installation
  • Managing any necessary permits and approvals from local authorities
  • Coordinating the delivery and installation of furniture and decor items

Decorators typically focus on the aesthetic aspects of a project. Their execution process might involve:

  • Sourcing furniture and decor items from various suppliers and artisans to create a unique look
  • Arranging furniture and accessories to optimize flow and visual appeal within the existing space
  • Implementing colour schemes and textures through paint, wallpaper, and fabric selections
  • Styling rooms for maximum visual impact, including the arrangement of artwork and decorative objects
  • Coordinating with painters, wallpaper installers, and other craftsmen to achieve the desired aesthetic
  • Advising on lighting choices and placement to enhance the room’s ambiance
  • Creating custom designs for elements like window treatments or throw pillows
  • Staging the space for a polished, magazine-worthy final look

Our approach at Carlo Picasso Decorators combines elements of both, ensuring a comprehensive service that meets all your home improvement needs. We strive to offer the technical expertise of design with the creative flair of decoration, providing a seamless experience from concept to completion.

Client Interaction and Collaboration

The way interior designers and decorators interact with clients can vary, reflecting their different roles and project scopes. Understanding these differences can help you choose the professional that best suits your communication style and project needs, ensuring a smooth and satisfying collaboration throughout your home improvement journey.

Interior designers often engage in more extensive client consultations. They need to understand not just your style preferences, but also how you use the space and any structural or functional requirements. This in-depth collaboration might involve:

  • Conducting thorough interviews about lifestyle, daily routines, and long-term goals for the space
  • Presenting technical drawings and 3D renderings to help clients visualize complex spatial changes
  • Providing regular updates on project progress, including timelines and budget considerations
  • Educating clients on design choices and their implications, including material durability and maintenance
  • Collaborating with clients to make informed decisions about structural changes and major design elements
  • Offering multiple design concepts and iterations based on client feedback and preferences
  • Guiding clients through the selection of finishes, fixtures, and materials, often with samples and swatches
  • Coordinating site visits during the construction or renovation process to keep clients informed and involved

Decorators typically focus more on understanding your style preferences and helping you achieve a specific look. Their client interactions often include:

  • Engaging in detailed discussions about colour preferences, style inspirations, and desired ambiance
  • Organizing shopping trips or virtual product presentations to explore furniture and decor options
  • Providing consultations on furniture and accessory placement within the existing space
  • Offering guidance on mixing patterns, textures, and colours to create a cohesive look
  • Creating mood boards or style collages to visually communicate design concepts
  • Advising on the selection of artwork, lighting fixtures, and decorative objects
  • Collaborating with clients to personalize the space with meaningful or sentimental items
  • Conducting final styling sessions to perfect the arrangement of decor and accessories

At Carlo Picasso Decorators, we pride ourselves on combining the best of both worlds, offering comprehensive consultations that cover both technical and aesthetic aspects of your project. Our approach ensures that clients receive personalized attention and expert guidance throughout the design process, whether it involves major renovations or stylish updates to existing spaces.

Tools and Resources

The tools and resources used by interior designers and decorators can differ significantly, reflecting their distinct roles and responsibilities in transforming spaces. Understanding these differences can provide insight into the depth and breadth of services each professional can offer, helping you make an informed decision based on your project’s specific requirements.

Interior Designer
  • CAD Software
  • Building Code References
  • Material Libraries
  • Project Management Tools
Decorator
  • Colour Swatches
  • Fabric Samples
  • Furniture Catalogues
  • Styling Props

Interior designers typically rely on a more technical arsenal of tools, including:

  • Computer-Aided Design (CAD) software for creating detailed floor plans and 3D renderings, allowing for precise spatial planning and visualization
  • Building code reference materials to ensure compliance with local and national regulations, including accessibility standards and safety requirements
  • Extensive material libraries covering everything from flooring to lighting fixtures, often with samples and technical specifications
  • Project management software to track timelines, budgets, and resources across complex renovation or construction projects
  • 3D modeling and virtual reality tools to provide immersive visualizations of proposed designs
  • Specialized software for lighting design, acoustic planning, and energy efficiency calculations
  • Digital tools for creating detailed specifications and documentation for contractors and suppliers
  • Resources for sustainable design practices and certification standards (e.g., LEED, BREEAM)

Decorators, on the other hand, focus more on style-centric tools such as:

  • Extensive collections of fabric swatches and wallpaper samples to explore texture and pattern options
  • Colour wheels and paint chip collections for precise colour matching and palette creation
  • Catalogues from furniture and decor suppliers, including both retail and trade-only sources
  • Mood boards and styling props for visualising room concepts and presenting ideas to clients
  • Digital design tools for creating visual layouts and collages of proposed room designs
  • Measuring tools and space planning apps for furniture arrangement within existing rooms
  • Lighting samples and portable lamps to test different lighting effects in the space
  • Photography equipment for documenting before-and-after transformations and portfolio creation

At Carlo Picasso Decorators, we use a combination of these tools to ensure we deliver comprehensive and visually stunning results for our clients. Our approach integrates the technical precision of interior design tools with the creative resources used by decorators, allowing us to offer a full spectrum of services tailored to each project’s unique requirements.

Cost Considerations

When deciding between an interior designer and a decorator, cost is often a big factor. Understanding the pricing structures and potential return on investment can help you make a good decision that fits both your budget and your project goals. It’s important to think about not just the upfront costs, but also the long-term value and potential savings that professional expertise can bring to your project.

ServiceInterior DesignerDecorator
Initial Consultation£150-£300£50-£150
Hourly Rate£100-£200£50-£150
Project Fee10-20% of total budget5-10% of total budget
Return on InvestmentHighMedium

Interior design services often involve a higher upfront cost due to the comprehensive nature of the work. This investment typically includes:

  • Detailed space planning and structural considerations, which can optimize the use of your space and potentially increase property value
  • Coordination with contractors and architects, saving you time and potentially reducing costly mistakes or revisions
  • Long-term value addition to your property through well-planned, functional, and aesthetically pleasing designs
  • Potential cost savings through efficient space utilisation and durable material selection, which can reduce future maintenance and replacement costs
  • Access to trade discounts on materials and furnishings, which can offset some of the design fees
  • Expertise in building regulations and permits, potentially avoiding costly legal issues or necessary changes after completion
  • Comprehensive project management, reducing stress and time investment on your part
  • Energy-efficient and sustainable design solutions that can lead to long-term savings on utility costs

Decorating services generally come at a lower cost, focusing on:

  • Aesthetic enhancements to existing spaces, providing a fresh look without major structural changes
  • Selection and arrangement of furnishings and accessories, often working with some existing pieces to reduce overall costs
  • Short-term visual improvements that can quickly transform the feel of a space
  • Flexibility to update styles more frequently, allowing for easier adaptation to changing trends or preferences
  • Focused interventions that can have a significant impact on specific areas of your home
  • Styling services that can help prepare a home for sale, potentially increasing its market appeal
  • Cost-effective solutions for rental properties or temporary living situations
  • Ability to work within smaller budgets while still achieving a polished, professional look

At Carlo Picasso Decorators, we offer clear pricing and work with you to find solutions that fit your budget while delivering great results. Our team can provide detailed breakdowns of costs and help you prioritize elements of your project to ensure you get the most value for your investment. We understand that every project is unique, and we strive to offer flexible options that cater to a range of budgets and needs.

When to Choose an Interior Designer vs a Decorator

Choosing between an interior designer and a decorator depends largely on the scope of your project and your specific needs. Understanding when to opt for each professional can save you time, money, and potential headaches, ensuring that you get the most appropriate expertise for your particular situation. Let’s explore the scenarios where each professional might be the ideal choice.

“The choice between an interior designer and a decorator often comes down to the complexity of your project. For structural changes or comprehensive renovations, an interior designer is invaluable. For aesthetic updates to an existing space, a decorator can work wonders.”

– Carl Picasso, Founder of Carlo Picasso Decorators

Consider an interior designer when:

  • You’re planning a major renovation or new construction project that involves structural changes
  • Your project involves moving walls or changing the layout of a space, requiring expertise in spatial planning
  • You need help with technical aspects like lighting plans, electrical layouts, or HVAC considerations
  • You want a comprehensive approach that includes both functional improvements and aesthetic enhancements
  • Your project must comply with specific building codes or accessibility requirements
  • You’re working on a commercial space that needs to balance branding, functionality, and regulatory compliance
  • You’re looking to significantly increase the value of your property through well-planned improvements
  • You want a single point of contact to manage all aspects of a complex renovation or design project

Opt for a decorator when:

  • You’re looking to refresh the look of a room or entire home without making structural changes
  • You need help selecting furniture, colours, and accessories to create a cohesive style
  • You want to update your home’s style on a smaller budget or within a shorter time-frame
  • You have a clear vision for your space but need help executing it and sourcing the right items
  • You’re preparing your home for sale and want to maximize its appeal to potential buyers
  • You’ve recently moved and want to adapt your existing furniture to a new space
  • You’re looking to incorporate current trends or a specific theme into your existing decor
  • You need expert advice on arranging furniture, choosing window treatments, or selecting artwork

At Carlo Picasso Decorators, we offer services that can adapt to your specific needs, whether you’re looking for comprehensive design solutions or focused decorating expertise. Our team’s diverse skills allow us to tailor our approach to each project, ensuring that you receive the most appropriate level of service for your goals and budget.

The Carlo Picasso Approach: Blending Design and Decoration

At Carlo Picasso Decorators, we’ve developed a unique way of working that combines the best parts of interior design and decoration. This approach allows us to offer complete solutions that address both the structural and aesthetic needs of our clients, ensuring a harmonious and functional result that exceeds expectations.

Cozy cafe interior with a rustic brick wall, yellow chairs, hanging lights, and vintage skis as decor.
A cosy living room with a sectional sofa, rustic coffee table and vintage accents, designed by Carlo Picasso Decorators.

Our unique way of working includes:

  • Initial talks that cover both functional needs and style preferences, ensuring we fully understand the client’s vision
  • Complete space planning with an eye for aesthetic details, balancing practicality with visual appeal
  • A mix of technical expertise and creative flair, allowing us to tackle both structural challenges and decorative finesse
  • Smooth project management from start to finish, giving clients a single point of contact throughout the process
  • Including sustainable and energy-efficient design principles, where appropriate, to create spaces that are both beautiful and environmentally responsible
  • Using advanced visualization tools to help clients fully understand and engage with the proposed designs
  • Working with a network of skilled craftsmen and suppliers to ensure high-quality execution of every design element
  • Flexibility to scale our services based on project needs, from full-scale renovations to focused decorating interventions

This integrated approach has led to many successful projects and industry recognition, including our recent win as the ‘Most Loved Home Service Provider’ in the Local and Loved Awards 2023. Our ability to bridge the gap between interior design and decoration allows us to create spaces that are not only visually stunning but also perfectly tailored to our clients’ lifestyles and needs.

Industry Trends: The Evolving Roles of Designers and Decorators

The interior design and decoration industry is always changing, with new trends and technologies shaping the roles of both designers and decorators. Keeping up with these changes is important for delivering cutting-edge solutions to our clients.

As the lines between design and decoration continue to blur, with many asking “what is the difference between an interior designer and decorator?”, professionals in both fields are adapting their skills and services to meet changing client expectations and market demands.

Evolving Roles
Technology Integration
Sustainability Focus
Wellness Design
Multifunctional Spaces
Virtual Services

Key trends influencing the industry include:

  • Increased use of 3D visualization and virtual reality in design presentations, allowing clients to experience their spaces before any physical work begins
  • Growing emphasis on sustainable and eco-friendly design practices, including the use of recycled materials and energy-efficient solutions
  • Rising importance of wellness-focused design in both residential and commercial spaces, incorporating elements that promote physical and mental well-being
  • Demand for multifunctional spaces, especially in urban environments where maximizing square footage is crucial
  • Expansion of virtual design services, allowing for remote consultations and project management, which has become increasingly important in recent times
  • Integration of smart home technologies into design plans, requiring designers and decorators to be well-versed in the latest tech solutions
  • Increased focus on biophilic design, incorporating natural elements and connections to the outdoors in interior spaces
  • Growing interest in personalized and artisanal elements, moving away from mass-produced decor in favor of unique, handcrafted pieces

At Carlo Picasso Decorators, we’re committed to staying at the forefront of these trends, continuously updating our skills and services to provide the best possible outcomes for our clients. Our team regularly attends industry conferences, participates in professional development courses, and collaborates with innovators in the field to ensure we’re offering the most current and effective design solutions.

Conclusion: Making the Right Choice for Your Home

So, what is the difference between interior designer and decorator when it comes to your project? It depends on your specific needs, project scope, and budget. While interior designers offer comprehensive solutions that include structural planning and technical expertise, decorators excel in enhancing the aesthetic appeal of existing spaces. Both professionals play important roles in creating beautiful and functional living environments, each bringing unique skills and perspectives to the table.

At Carlo Picasso Decorators, we pride ourselves on offering a blend of both worlds. Our team combines the technical knowledge of interior design with the creative flair of decoration, ensuring that every project we undertake is both functionally sound and visually stunning. This integrated approach allows us to cater to a wide range of project types and client needs, from major renovations to stylish room refreshes.

Whether you’re planning a big renovation or simply want to refresh your living space, we’re here to help you navigate the process and achieve your dream home. Our customer-focused approach and commitment to excellence have made us a trusted name in the industry, as shown by our recent awards and satisfied clients. We understand that every project is unique, and we tailor our interior painting and decorating services to meet your specific goals, preferences, and budget constraints.

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About us

A spring clean or a much-needed makeover?

Tired of the magnolia or inspired to create and refresh?

Whatever the reason – you have made the right decision in coming to us.

Carlo Picasso Decorators are members of:
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Our Approach

We believe here at Carlo Picasso Decorators that ‘An Englishman’s home is his castle’

The famous quote from Sir Edward Coke goes all the way back to 1604, but we feel that it is even more relevant in today’s society. ‘House proud’ customers come to us and have peace of mind in knowing that the bottom line is….we care.

– We care about turning up on your doorstep at the agreed date and time.

– We care about causing the least disruption to your home environment.

– We care about attention to detail.

– We care about your delight (not satisfaction) at the end result.

 

This we deliver to you as an integral part of our service – from initial consultation to survey, preparation to painting – we believe that you, the customer, deserve this.

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10 reasons why Carlo Picasso Painters and Decorators are a class above:

1: We’ve got the Knowledge

Knowledge comes from experience, training and learning new techniques. Professional decorating services provide patient and thorough preparation and flawless finishes – Carlo Picasso are THE reason not to DIY!

 

2: We know how long projects take

Our estimates are based on actual work required to do the job to our exacting standards – not a cheapest attempt to get the job, only to provide excuses later as to why the invoice is double the quote!

 

3: We know how to prepare

Preparation is different for each and every job. Condition of plastering, wallpaper, wood, etc all effect how we prepare prior to decorating. Often, we spend more time in prep than in painting – if that is what the project requires to achieve the best outcome.

 

4: We’re masters of the latest techniques

There’s a lot of skill and technique that goes into decorating and we combine traditional craftsmanship with keeping up to date with new innovations, materials and finishes.

 

5: We’re fully insured

Public Liability Insurance ensures that if any accident occurs, we are covered. Your peace of mind is of the utmost importance to us as is being professional in everything we do.

 

6: We have an ‘eye for detail’

Attention to detail is paramount in our industry. We pride ourselves on having that sixth sense of knowing when something is not quite 100% and having the dedication and ability to put it right.

 

7: We know colours

What goes with what?

What is in fashion or soooo last year?

Would a feature wall really work there?

Don’t worry – we know colours – its our job, its our passion!

 

8: You can work with us

We listen to you…..your ideas….your vision and make it happen.  Your input and continued involvement in your project is vital to the successful outcome and we encourage you to experience the journey the project takes from prep to finish.

 

9. You can trust us

Put simply, your peace of mind, your delight is why we do what we do. We get a kick out of your reaction to our enhancement of your living environment. That is why you can trust us to do the job – we love what we do!

 

10: We’re backed by a 24-month guarantee

Underwritten by Dulux, your project is backed by a 24-month workmanship guarantee. So you can be confident the work we do will last you for years.

Please contact us for more information, our availability, a quotation or to view our gallery

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