Get matched with top residential design pros in Killian, LA

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.

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.

Yes, staging a home really works and can help your home sell faster, potentially for a higher price than if you did not use a home staging service. According to the National Association of Realtors, 48% of seller’s agents reported home staging decreased a home’s time on the market. 

Plus, 20% of buyer’s and seller’s agents claimed home staging increased home sale prices by 1% to 5%. Although decluttering and cleaning help a home sell, staging can take your home’s curb appeal to the next level, helping to expedite the process and increase your profit.

The main factors to consider when staging your home when selling are your budget, number of rooms to stage, and how long to keep the staged setup. Since home staging costs about $600 per room when using professional services, you may want to only stage the rooms that are most important to potential buyers, including the kitchen, living room, and primary bedroom. You should also consider which repairs or updates are necessary before staging your home, such as painting interior walls, carpet cleaning, and refinishing hardwood floors.