Designer vs. Decorator: What’s the Difference (and Which One Do You Need)?

If you’ve ever wondered whether an interior designer and an interior decorator are the same thing, you’re definitely not alone. A lot of people use the two terms interchangeably—after all, designers decorate rooms, right? So they must be decorators.

Not quite.

While both roles work toward making your home beautiful, the skill sets, processes, and end results are actually very different. And knowing which one you need helps your project run smoothly and saves you from a lot of confusion (and sometimes unnecessary cost).

So let’s break it down in a way that actually makes sense.

Interior Designer: The Creator, the Visionary, the Builder of Something From Nothing

Here’s the simplest way to understand it:

A designer creates. A decorator refreshes.

Interior designers are trained to look at every element of a space—architecture, floor plans, function, lighting, materials, proportion, lifestyle needs, and the overall vision. Designers build spaces from the ground up, whether you’re working on new construction, a remodel, or a full redesign.

Designers work with things like:

• CAD drawings and floor plans

• Space planning and traffic flow

• Furniture specifications

• Material and finish selections

• Fabric swatches and paint decks

• 3D renderings and visualizations

And here’s the thing most clients are relieved to hear:

Most people cannot look at a tiny fabric swatch and picture the full-size sectional in their home.
Most people can’t look at a rough space and imagine how it will feel when it’s finished.

Designers can. Their brains work that way. They’re the visionaries—the people who see the end long before the beginning even starts.

That’s exactly why you hire one.

Interior Decorator: The Stylist, the Curator, the “Let’s Make What You Have Look Better” Expert

Interior decorators can be incredibly talented—but their role is different.

Decorators enhance what already exists. They don’t alter the structure or layout of a space. Instead, they focus on the aesthetic finishing touches.

Decorators typically help with:

• Styling shelves and surfaces

• Rearranging existing furniture

• Selecting pillows, throws, decor, and artwork

• Adding new accent pieces

• Making the space look refreshed and cohesive

They usually work with retail sources and your current furniture, and their services are generally less costly because they don’t require architectural or technical training.

Both are valuable. They just serve different purposes.

So… Which One Do You Need?

Here’s the easiest way to decide:

Choose an Interior Designer If You’re:

• Building a new home

• Renovating or remodeling

• Starting from scratch

• Redesigning a room, floor, or full home

• Needing help with layouts, scale, finishes, and furnishings

• Wanting a complete vision before you invest

Choose an Interior Decorator If You’re:

• Refreshing what you already own

• Styling shelves or tabletops

• Rearranging furniture

• Adding pillows, accessories, or artwork

• Making small cosmetic updates

Final Thought

All designers can decorate, but not all decorators are trained to design.

It’s not a hierarchy—it’s simply two different specialties with different strengths.

Before you hire someone, ask what their services include and what they specialize in. Once you know the difference, you’ll know exactly who to call—whether you’re dreaming up a full redesign or just want a quick, stylish refresh.

Either way, your home deserves to feel beautiful, intentional, and completely “you.” And we’d love to help you get there.