What is the Difference Between an Interior Designer and an Interior Decorator?

Many people use the terms interior designer and interior decorator interchangeably. They are similar in the sense that both are professionals who work to aesthetically enhance the interior of buildings. While their roles do often overlap, they are not synonymous. In fact, interior designers and decorators are quite different when it comes to educational background and professional qualifications.

The American Society of Interior Designers (ASID) defines an interior designer as one who “is professionally trained to create a functional and quality interior environment. Qualified through education, experience and examination, a professional designer can identify research and creatively resolve issues and lead to a healthy, safe and comfortable physical environment.” Interior designers are licensed professionals that coordinate projects which may involve architecture and construction. They need to be knowledgeable of building codes and ordinances. A college degree is necessary to become an interior designer.

Interior decorators are only able to make aesthetic improvements, not structural changes, to the interiors of buildings. They choose paint colors and fabrics, select and arrange furniture, find appropriate lighting, window coverings and flooring, and choose accessories such as throw pillows and artwork. The tasks done by an interior decorator lack the technicality of the tasks done by a designer, so no college education or licensure is required. Degrees can, however, give interior decorators an edge over the competition and an option to become licensed in the future.

Both professionals, interior designer and interior decorators, can benefit from a college degree. Interior design programs are available at the associate’s and bachelor’s degree levels. Students can take classes online or in a campus setting. To learn more about interior design degree programs, check out our Interior Design Degree page.