Get matched with top interior designers and decorators in Marlow Heights, MD

The cost to have your house decorated for Christmas depends on the extent of your holiday vision. Interior decorators charge between $50 and $150 per hour on average, so if your decorations are minimal, you could pay as little as $200 for a couple of hours of decorating. Interior decorators might also bill $5 to $12 per square foot, or a flat rate of $500 to $1,300 per room. You can also pay to have your Christmas tree professionally decorated for an average of $200 to $600. Contact a local interior decorator for a specific quote.

No, even if you have a vague idea of what you want, it’s a good idea to reach out to a contractor that specializes in outdoor kitchens for assistance. Professionals who have constructed kitchens for other homeowners can not only help you think about the functionality and convenience of your outdoor space—which many homeowners neglect—but they can also help you choose high-quality, durable materials that meet your budget and match the rest of your outdoor space. In fact, it’s often better to contact a contractor and get the ball rolling before you have a solidified plan for your outdoor kitchen.

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.

Look to the professionals when figuring out the secrets to styling a bookshelf. Place decor in varying heights, mix colors and textures, and always create a balanced overall design by alternating where you place extra decor items. Most importantly, don't overfill the shelf. Leave a bit of open space to deter clutter.