Get matched with top interior designers and decorators in Whippany, 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.

Neoclassical architecture is all about simplicity and balance without losing the drama of its style. White, gray, cream, and other soft pastels are common. Many homeowners choose a deep natural hue for a pop of color, such as jewel tones or black accents. Modern neoclassical architecture also incorporates brick facades, bringing red into the color scheme.

Professionals often use extra materials that aren’t included in traditional tree decorations, like pins and more expensive wired ribbon that can be carefully shaped. But even without these elements, you can improve your decorating by taking a few professional cues.

Always start by picking an overall theme, including colors, types of ornaments, and the overall feeling or message you want to create. Fluff your tree to its fullest potential, and include a generous amount of garlands, lights, ornaments, and bows to complete the look. Professional trees tend to be very “full” and well-balanced, with only a couple of ornament types to help the decorations flow.

Professional holiday decorating services cost between $300 and $2,500 or more, with an average cost of about $1,500. The total price depends on the size of your home, the extent of the work, your location, and whether materials are included. Simple interior decoration may cost around $300, while a combination of interior and exterior work often totals around $800. For large or extensive design services, you could pay $2,500 or more. Common service costs can include: exterior holiday light installation ($400), Christmas tree decoration ($200–$600), interior holiday design ($50–$200 per hour), and holiday landscaping ($50–$100 per hour). Note that some prices may only include labor, not the cost of the decorations themselves.