Let’s be real for a moment about our craving for beautiful design in the home. As much as we love the creative and fantastic do-it-yourself ideas that we find on HGTV, Pinterest, and Houzz, many of us just don’t have the time to get involved in these projects. Or the talent. Or the patience. Turning to outside help might be our best bet for décor or functionality improvement. Here’s the skinny on two sorts of design professionals who can help. It’s important to understand their differences in background and services so you choose the type that best fits your needs.
Interior Designer
Interior design combines art and the science of people’s living behavior within a particular space. They consider rooms critically in terms of structure, lighting, and purpose. In other words, they may be the ones choosing where built-in lighting or shelving should appear and where to make the focal point of a room with furniture or wall accents. They often work on new builds or significant remodeling projects. It’s common to have them work with architects, obtain building permits, and discuss design possibilities using blueprints. They can hire and coordinate contractors, plumbers, electricians, and painters. Most interior designers have formal training or a degree in design and belong to a professional organization. They also often have a relationship with vendors for furniture, rugs, lighting and others, so they are able to receive discounts that you normally would not get if buying direct. Their work does overlap with that of an interior decorator in that they also recommend décor and furnishings.
Interior Decorator
An interior decorator focuses on furnishings and décor while creating a pulled-together look for a home. Decorators don’t necessarily require special schooling or degrees for their work, but they have an eye for the scale of a room, color, and how to coordinate furnishings to create a specific theme or feel. He or she has the talent to visualize different arrangements of focal pieces, accent pieces, and color, while appealing to your personal flair. Interior decorators might also have discount arrangements with certain vendors. They usually provide the service of finding pieces for you, even shopping with you if desired, and arranging delivery to your home.
What Do They Cost?
Of course cost varies by professional and location. Expect to pay anywhere from $100 to $500 per hour for an interior designer. An interior decorator is usually less expensive at $50 to $250 per hour. Keep in mind that discounts they’re able to get with preferred vendors could save you twenty to thirty percent on items compared to direct-to-consumer costs.
Which One is Right for You?
Obviously you need to consider budget and how much you can afford to update or change your home. If you’re doing anything that requires a significant structural change or the repurposing of rooms, you may need an interior designer. If you only want to bring in new furnishings and color, then an interior decorator may suit you. Whichever one you choose, take care to review their design portfolio and ensure their style matches your own. Also, ask to speak to a former client or two to get a feel for satisfaction levels. When you do hire someone, clearly communicate your personal style with visuals printed out. The more you’re able to show the look you want, the better they’ll be able to achieve your goal.