Get matched with top residential design pros in Wrangell, AK

While the terms 'interior designer' and 'interior decorator' are often used interchangeably, they represent distinct professions with some overlapping work. The primary difference lies in the scope of their projects.

An interior decorator focuses on the aesthetics of a space, making less permanent decisions about decor. Their work involves selecting colors, fabrics, furniture, wall art, paint, and other finishes to 'dress' a room and enhance its style.

An interior designer has a broader scope that includes a decorator's aesthetic focus but also extends to the structural and functional aspects of a space. Designers are qualified to plan layouts, make structural changes, and manage overall functionality. They handle permanent decisions regarding fixtures like cabinets and bathtubs, establish floor plans, and may hire contractors.

Due to the technical skills required, interior designers typically have formal education, certification, and may hold a license, which can result in higher fees. As a general rule, it is best to hire an interior designer for major remodeling projects and an interior decorator for projects focused on establishing or refreshing a home's interior style.

It’s often worth hiring a closet designer, even though the process can be expensive. Custom closets drastically improve the usability and convenience of your living space, but they also tend to improve your home value. Not only will your custom closet improve your living experience, but you’ll likely see more than a 50% return on your investment when you sell your home.

Any homeowner can carry out interior decoration themselves, but many struggle to devise a cohesive and appealing design that balances comfort and aesthetics. Interior designers are not only trained in design principles, but they also design home interiors for a living, so they’re much more likely to produce a final product that meets your needs. Hiring a professional can sometimes lead to savings on the materials, as some experts know how to source more affordable decor and furniture via their professional connections.

Federal and Colonial architecture are similar in that they both appear mostly utilitarian and symmetrical, but Federal architecture is a bit more ornate. Federal design often includes decorative palladium windows, window lintels, and, sometimes, columns surrounding a more decorative portico. Inside, Federal architecture is set apart by its centrally-located oval room. Additionally, Federal homes tend to have brick facades, whereas Colonial homes more often have wood siding.