Many people believe that Decorators and Designers are the same, while some simply do not know the difference between the two. This post will help you to have a clear understanding of how the two differ.
Interior Decorator:
An "Interior Decorator" is someone who deals with colors, furniture, finishes and primarily works in residential boundries. An Interior Decorator will arrange furniture in a space, or put together colors and finishes to create a palette that the client can choose from. They also charge a "mark-up" on all furniture and products they sale to clients. Mark-ups can range anywhere from 20%-50%. Decorators are reluctant towards contracts and/or letter of aggrements.
Interior Designer:
An "Interior Designer" is someone who can complete an interior design project from start to finish, including preparing construction documents for bidding and permitting, as well as supervising the construction and installating of the work. This person in essence becomes your agent to deal with local building codes and building departments, and licensed contractors. They have the expertise to handle all of these different players, whereas you may, or may not have the time or inclination.
Interior Designers cover all types of projects from commerical (offices, medical facilities, retail shops, restaurants, hotels, retirement and nursing facilities, etc) to residential. Typically an Interior Designer has a lot of education and experience, as well as possibly having sat for one or more examinations in order to test their competency and to attain state recognition of their profession.
*For a list of Certified Interior Designers in your area visit the CCIDC website at www.ccidc.org or call the CCIDC office in San Marcos, CA at (760)761-4734.
Reference:
CCIDC