Get matched with top interior designers and decorators in White Lake, MI

Decorators often prefer artificial Christmas trees. They’re easier to handle and shape, and decorators don’t have to worry about bugs or allergies. It’s also an ideal choice because artificial trees keep up appearances without owners needing to schedule watering. 

However, always confirm that decorators are ready to unbox and set up the artificial tree. If they don’t include tree set-up in their services, you may need to hire a general handyperson for that task.

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.

Some architects include interior design in their portfolio of offerings, while some architectural firms employ interior designers to handle that aspect of home building projects or refer clients to interior designers they’ve worked with in the past. Ask a local architect whether they offer interior design services as well.

Whether hiring an interior designer is worth the cost depends on your budget, the scope of the project, and your own design and project management skills. For larger projects or those beyond your DIY skills, an interior designer is often a worthwhile investment. The benefits include realizing the best layout, functionality, and decor for your lifestyle and taste; managing the project to keep it on track and within budget; serving as a point of contact for contractors; accessing discounts from suppliers; and assisting with home staging for a sale.