Is an interior designer the same as a decorator?
When it comes to designing spaces, the terms "interior designer" and "decorator" are often used interchangeably. However, they are two professional profiles with great differences in terms of academic training, responsibilities and functions.
It is undeniable that the work of both is intertwined in the design of a space, but what are the differences?
Interior design: Functionality and space
An interior designer is dedicated to planning, designing and/or transforming spaces so that they are functional, aesthetic and safe. Their work ranges from spatial planning and material selection to furniture selection and project management with the aim of creating environments that meet the needs and preferences of users or clients.
His main purpose is to optimise the functionality of a space, considering aspects such as spatial planning, selection of materials and finishes, lighting (choice of luminaires, strategic placement and lighting control) and legal building codes and regulations.
Interior decorator: Aesthetics and style
Decorators, on the other hand, focus primarily on the aesthetics of a space. Once the space is optimised, the decorator's job comes in. This is the figure who is in charge of improving the visual appearance of a space and creating a certain ambience through the styling and choice of furniture and accessories, the colour and textures of all the elements of a space and other decorative aspects that influence the appearance and style.
Their main objective is to achieve an attractive and balanced visual appearance while striving to reflect the client's personality and taste.
Collaboration is the key to success
Both profiles are complementary and are involved in the process of creating a space, but at different stages of the project. While designers deal with aspects of functionality and distribution of spaces, decorators work on the aesthetics of that space. However, both profiles are needed.
The choice of an interior designer or a decorator will depend on the specific needs of the project, but ultimately the work of both aims to create functional, unique and attractive spaces.
