Get matched with top interior designers and decorators in Gillette, NJ

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.

Establishing a whole-house color palette gives your home a sense of uniformity and makes your interior look more visually appealing. Overdoing a single color can make your home feel monotonous, while too many colors can create a sense of chaos and disorganization. When in doubt, choose a foundation color and then use complementary colors to accent.

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.

When you think about Arts and Crafts-style homes, you probably think of a Craftsman house or a bungalow-style Craftsman. Craftsman is one of the major styles developed during the Arts and Crafts movement, but it checks most boxes. Craftsman houses have low-pitched roofs, exposed rafters, open floor plans, and stunning wood finish.