The main difference between decorating and design is scope and depth.
Interior Design
- Purpose: Creates functional, safe, and aesthetically pleasing spaces by addressing structure, layout, and usability.
- Involves:
- Space planning & furniture layouts
- Wall removals or construction
- Electrical, plumbing, and lighting plans
- Material & finish selection
- Building codes & safety compliance
- Tools: CAD drawings, 3D renderings, technical specs.
- Focus: Both function and appearance.
💡 Example: An interior designer might redesign your kitchen by moving walls, changing plumbing locations, selecting flooring, and creating custom cabinetry — before choosing colors and décor.
Interior Decorating
- Purpose: Enhances the look and feel of a space without altering its structure.
- Involves:
- Choosing color palettes
- Selecting furniture, curtains, rugs, and art
- Styling shelves, accessories, and lighting
- Tools: Mood boards, color swatches, fabric samples.
- Focus: Appearance only.
💡 Example: An interior decorator might update your kitchen with new wall paint, bar stools, pendant lights, and plants — without moving plumbing or changing the layout.
Quick Comparison Table
| Aspect | Interior Design | Interior Decorating |
|---|---|---|
| Scope | Structural + aesthetic | Aesthetic only |
| Requires Technical Knowledge | Yes (codes, layouts, systems) | Minimal |
| Timeline Impact | Often longer, involves construction | Quicker, no major structural work |
| Who to Hire | For renovations, remodeling, or new builds | For style updates & visual refresh |
If you’d like, I can also give you a simple checklist to know when you need a designer vs. a decorator — it’s helpful if you’re planning a project and unsure which pro to hire. Would you like me to make that?