With the growing interest in professions that enhance interior spaces, it can be a challenge to sort out all the job titles. For example, what's makes an interior designer different from an interior decorator? Understanding what each occupation has to offer will make things clearer when hiring an interior professional or when studying to be one.

Interior Designers

The top of the food chain for interior specialties is the interior designer. This is because there are specific regulations for those who use this term to describe their profession. Although it varies from state to state, most interior designers must be licensed and must have completed college coursework in their area of expertise. The main reason for this is that interior designers are often involved with architectural or furniture design which requires knowledge of safety codes and structural integrity. The American Society of Interior Designers is the top industry association of interior design professionals.

Interior designers also specify materials for flooring, wall finishes, window treatments, upholstery, and accessories. There are many emerging areas within this field, but generally interior designers work in either residential or commercial environments with some specializing in:

• Kitchen and bath design
• Health care facilities
• Green design
• Institutional design (schools and churches)
• Accessible design
• Hospitality (hotels, casinos, resorts, and restaurants)

Interior Decorators

The titles of interior designer and interior decorator are often thought of as one in the same. However, an interior decorator is usually limited to surface changes that enhance the visual appeal and comfort of a space. There are typically no requirements for licensing or education involved, so interior decorators tend to be more accessible and affordable for the average homeowner.

Interior decorators perform their magic for both residential and commercial clients while sometimes focusing on elements like color, fabrics, feng shui, or window treatments. There are various associations and programs which offer recognition of interior decorators such as Certified Interior Decorators International. Upon finishing the CID program, graduates can use the trademarked title "Certified Interior Decorator".

Home Redesigners

A new branch of interior decorating is the art of home redesign. This novel field uses a client's readily available furniture and accessories to redesign the space. Before placing the furnishings in their new spots, home redesigners take into account each room's focal point, functionality, and comfort. It usually takes less than one day for a home redesigner to complete their speedy makeovers. While there are no official regulations for home redesigners, there are many independent training programs available which offer their own certifications.

Home Staging

Another emerging branch of interior decorating is home staging. Closely tied to the real estate industry, home staging involves prepping houses for mass appeal and faster, higher sales. Home stagers start by clearing clutter from the property and making recommendations for minor repairs. Then, the home stager strategically places the furniture and accessories to show off the highlights of a room while downplaying any flaws.

Home Staging vs. Decorating

Staging is Not Decorating. Here are some differences:

• Decorating is a luxury
• Staging is a necessity
  
  
• Decorating is for the homeowners enjoyment
• Staging is for the future buyer
  
  
• Decorating is personal style
• Staging is universal style - profile that is coming through the house, any recommendations are to secure an offer
  
  
• Decorating involves (generally) larger budget
• Staging is always about budget and is time sensitive
  
  
• Decorating means you have a longer time line
• Staging you work with a tighter deadline
  
  
• Decorating is optional
• Staging is Mandatory

©2005-2008 Certified Staging Professionals Resource Manual
Permission for publishing on myspacedesigners.com granted by Christine Rae, CSP President