Interior Designer vs Interior Decorator:What’s the Difference?

Written By Julie Pippenger

I’ll be the first to admit—before I got into this field, I didn’t know the difference myself. I always thought the two were interchangeable, but I was completely wrong.

I’ve always had a creative side for as long as I can remember. Whether it was doing crafts as a Girl Scout, learning to sew in high school, or dabbling in artwork, the desire to create was always there.

I remember going to the mall with my mom as a kid (and yes, this was way before Amazon) and begging her to buy me a canvas of a sailboat cruising through the water because I was convinced it would look perfect with my freshly painted peach bedroom walls. I don’t even like sailboats—and I’m still not sure it actually matched the peach walls—but my parents still have that artwork hanging in their home, and it brings back the best memories.

So let’s get back to interior designer vs. interior decorator.

As I mentioned, you could have fooled me into thinking they were one and the same. While the two roles are often mistakenly interchanged, they actually serve two very distinct purposes. Understanding the difference can save you time, money, and frustration by helping you hire the right professional for your project.

Interior Designer vs. Interior Decorator: The Key Difference

An interior designer focuses on the structural and functional design of a space, while an interior decorator focuses on styling, furnishings, and overall aesthetics. Both are valuable, but they are not interchangeable.

What Does an Interior Designer Do?

You may need an interior designer if your project involves:

  • Removing or adding walls

  • Changing layouts or floor plans

  • Renovating kitchens or bathrooms

  • New construction or building a home from the ground up

Interior designers often work closely with architects, contractors, and builders. They typically have formal education and, in many cases, professional licensing. Their role is critical when a project involves construction, codes, or structural changes.

What Does an Interior Decorator Do?

An interior decorator focuses on the look and feel of a space rather than its structure. Decorators work with existing layouts to create homes that feel cohesive, functional, and personal.

Interior decorators typically focus on:

  • Selecting furniture, rugs, lighting, and window treatments

  • Developing color palettes and paint selections

  • Styling shelves, surfaces, and accessories

  • Improving furniture layout to enhance flow and functionality

Often, simple changes—like the right paint color, a better furniture arrangement, or thoughtfully chosen artwork—can completely transform a room.

Hiring an interior decorator is ideal if you want to furnish a new home, update your décor, or elevate your space without a major renovation.

Which One Do You Need for Your Home?

If you’re unsure whether to hire an interior designer or an interior decorator, consider the following:

  • Planning a major remodel or new construction? → Interior Designer

  • Want to update furniture, décor, or paint? → Interior Decorator

  • Need help creating a cohesive, finished look? → Interior Decorator

  • Changing layouts or addressing structural elements? → Interior Designer

In some cases, homeowners choose to work with both—an interior designer for technical planning and an interior decorator to complete the final styling.

Why Hire an Interior Decorator?

Working with an interior decorator can help you:

  • Avoid costly decorating mistakes

  • Create a cohesive, well-designed home

  • Achieve a polished look that reflects your lifestyle

An interior decorator helps transform a space from unfinished to intentional—without the disruption of construction. This is exactly why I love being an interior decorator. I get to see meaningful transformations happen through thoughtful choices, whether it’s the perfect paint color, a refreshed layout, or the right mix of artwork and décor.

Final Thoughts: Interior Designer vs. Interior Decorator

Understanding the difference between an interior designer and an interior decorator allows you to make a confident, informed decision for your home. Whether you’re renovating or refreshing, choosing the right professional ensures your project stays aligned with your vision and budget.

If you’re looking to enhance your home’s style, improve flow, and create a space that truly feels like home, working with a local interior decorator in Las Vegas, NV may be the perfect solution. I’ve learned a lot since choosing that sailboat artwork—but what hasn’t changed is my love for creativity.

Based in Las Vegas, NV, I work with homeowners throughout the valley to create beautiful, functional spaces that feel like home.

 

Julie Pippenger