Get matched with top residential design pros in Jayess, MS

Most interior designers have at least a four-year degree, if not an advanced degree in interior design. Additionally, many states require interior designers to be licensed. If your state does not require licensing, interior designers can take a licensing exam with the National Council of Interior Design Qualification (NCIDQ). Overall, licensing requirements vary from state to state, but most licenses require certain education levels and experience to qualify. To check the qualifications of your interior designer, use Angi’s state licensing tool.

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.

While finding a local interior designer whose portfolio you like and whose fees match your budget is important, they should always have appropriate qualifications. Some states require interior designers to be licensed, and most will have a degree in interior design and certification through the National Council for Interior Design Qualifications (NCIDQ). You can also consult our directory of interior designers to get started.

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.