Get matched with top residential design pros in Appleton City, MO

A certified kitchen designer (or CKD) is a certification given by the National Kitchen and Bath Association. These designers have completed the necessary hours of training and education to specialize in kitchens, and therefore understand the wide variety of project needs (like plumbing, electrical, appliances, and more). Most pros will make their certifications known on their website, but you can also ask during your search for a local kitchen designer.

Hiring a high-quality interior decorator should always start with reading through online reviews to see the kind of experience other homeowners have had. You can narrow down your search and then ask the remaining companies for references and examples of their past work. It’s during this stage that you’re likely to find a company that suits your specific tastes and one that has experience with the style you want to bring into your home. You should consider calling references to ask about the process and the homeowners’ experiences with the decorator before, during, and after service.

To stage your home yourself, clean your home thoroughly to sell, leaving it gleaming like a five-star hotel. Less is best—always clear away clutter and anything personal so buyers can focus on the beauty of the rooms. Prospective buyers will check the closets, so investing in a storage space may be necessary.

Move furniture around, mix fabrics and decor, and de-cramp the room by removing any unnecessary furniture. A fresh coat of paint always helps, as do natural features like plants.

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.