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Avatar for Karen Andrea Interior Design, Inc.
Karen Andrea Interior Design, Inc.
4.1(
19
)

Serving Santa Barbara, CA and surrounding areas

Approved

In business since 2014

Free estimates

Credit card accepted

"Karen is an excellent interior designer who has been patient with my frequent indecisiveness. She really pays attention to my concerns and style preferences while also encouraging me to try things I might not have otherwise considered. She knows how to create beautiful, comfortable spaces."
Our Work
Our Work
Our Work
Our Work
Our Work

+30

Response time2 days
Recommended by80%of homeowners
Avatar for McCormick Home Builders, Inc.
McCormick Home Builders, Inc.
4.6(
36
)

Serving Santa Barbara, CA and surrounding areas

Approved

In business since 2017

Free estimates

Customers say: True professional

"The bathroom remodeling was a remarkable transformation, turning our outdated space into a luxurious retreat. We're enamored with the sleek, modern design that enhances our daily routines with elegance and comfort."
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+1

Response time6 hrs
Recommended by18%of homeowners
Avatar for Tom Smith Architecture
Tom Smith Architecture
5.0(
5
)

Serving Santa Barbara, CA and surrounding areas

Approved

In business since 2004

Free estimates

Credit card accepted

"We have used Tom Smith services directly twice, and indirectly a third time. It was his design that led to buying our home in Montecito. He subsequently designed a beautiful wine room which has given us and our friends & family many wonderful memories. We are currently working with Tom on a kitchen redesign and highly recommend him. John & Susan"
Tom's Portfolio
Work
Work
Work
Work

+7

Response time2 days
Recommended by100%of homeowners
Avatar for Moderne Kitchens
Moderne Kitchens
5.0(
3
)

Serving Santa Barbara, CA and surrounding areas

Approved

In business since 2019

Free estimates

Credit card accepted

"We took our kitchen down to the studs and started from scratch. I absolutely love my kitchen from the design to the finishes. Ken was very helpful with choosing the materials and designing our space."
Bar Area
Coffee Close up
craig on the job
island long
island longe

+36

Response time2 days
6 neighbors recently requested a quote
Recommended by66%of homeowners
Avatar for 805 Hardwood Flooring
805 Hardwood Flooring
4.7(
12
)

Serving Santa Barbara, CA and surrounding areas

Approved

In business since 2002

Free estimates

Credit card accepted

"They were friendly, professional and competent. I had a crash project and they adjusted their work to accommodate me. I can't praise them highly enough. Have a job - call Kathy at San Andres Hardware!!"
Interior Upgrade with New Vinyl Plank Floors
Response time11 hrs
Recommended by75%of homeowners
Avatar for Blosfield Designs
Blosfield Designs
5.0(
1
)

Serving Santa Barbara, CA and surrounding areas

Approved

In business since 2016

Free estimates

Customers say: Quick response

Blosfield Designs a reputable design company that specializes in a variety of high end design and space planning projects. We take pride in our ability to exceed expectations in all aspects of the business. We look forward to building long-term relationships with our clients, and guarantee your satisfaction. All technical drawings and 3D model/video prepared and full city coordination for the permitting process. Management throughout the construction process is also available. Trust, communication and being there for my client's is a priority. See my reviews on Houzz and my website.

Brentwood in Progress
West L.A. Front
Desert Home - Front
Cozy covered loggia - In progress
West L.A. Courtyard

+99

Recommended by100%of homeowners
Avatar for Ashton Built Inc.
Ashton Built Inc.
4.2(
5
)

Serving Santa Barbara, CA and surrounding areas

Approved

In business since 1990

Free estimates

Offers commercial services

"We first hired Kyles firm when they were just starting out... he did a really nice job on a relatively small (under a $100k) renovation project. A couple years later we contacted him again to perform another, much bigger renovation project. We hired him mainly because we were fairly certain that he would not walk out on us, and trusted he would resolve any issues. We love our house! We have recommended them and will continue to do so!"
Exterior
Living/Kitchen
Kitchen/Stairwell
Exterior 2
Stairwell/Bedroom

+7

Response time4 days
10 neighbors recently requested a quote
Recommended by100%of homeowners
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Showing 1-10 of 114
Interior Design and Decorating questions, answered by experts

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.

Yes, most designers tailor plans to fit your budget. Discuss financial constraints during initial consultations.

Whether you should mix cabinet pulls and knobs comes down to personal preference and the space you're decorating. Choosing matching cabinet hardware creates a more cohesive look, but it's not as distinct and eye-catching as a mix-and-match design. Smaller spaces benefit most from matching hardware since too many styles can visually crowd or overwhelm a small room.

Mid-century modern design focused primarily on two things: simple, functional furniture, often with geometric shapes, and specific color palettes that included earth tones and what we’d today call retro colors. Furniture often blended different materials, like teak or oak wood, with vinyl, metal, and glass. Common mid-century modern paint colors included browns, reds, burnt oranges, yellows, aqua greens, and whites.

Designers optimize space, improve aesthetics, and recommend durable, high-quality materials.

The Santa Barbara, CA homeowners’ guide to interior design and decorating services

From average costs to expert advice, get all the answers you need to get your job done.