Get matched with top interior designers and decorators in Browns Summit, NC

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.

Mid-century modern design focused primarily on two things: simple, functional furniture, often with geometric shapes, and specific color palettes that included earth tones and what we’d today call retro colors. Furniture often blended different materials, like teak or oak wood, with vinyl, metal, and glass. Common mid-century modern paint colors included browns, reds, burnt oranges, yellows, aqua greens, and whites.

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.

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.