When you hear “interior designer” and “interior decorator,” what comes to mind? The thought that someone is trying to make their job sound more important than it really is? Well, you thought wrong. Believe it or not, there actually is a difference between the two.

The American Society of Interior Designers defines an interior designer as a professional who identifies, researches and creatively solves problems to interpret the function and quality of the interior environment. A designer is responsible for performing services relative to interior spaces, including programming, design analysis, space planning and aesthetics, using specialized knowledge of interior construction, building codes, equipment, materials and furnishings. Designers are formally trained to prepare drawings and documents relative to the design of interior spaces in order to enhance and protect the health, safety and welfare of the public*.

Interior decorators mainly focus on the aesthetics of a room or space. They are responsible for selecting the elements that are needed for the transformation process. These elements include furniture, lighting and other materials. They are also responsible for arranging the space. You don’t need an Interior Design degree to work in this field. In fact, most interior decorators hold degrees in related areas such as fine arts or drafting, or have taken informal courses.

This article is presented by Harrington College of Design. Contact us today if you’re interested in developing marketable knowledge and career-relevant skills with an industry-current degree program from Harrington College of Design.

Harrington College of Design does not guarantee employment or salary.

* http://www.careersininteriordesign.com/faqs.html#q2
Additional info: http://www.ineed2know.org/business/become-interior-decorator.htm