Get matched with top residential design pros in Cochiti, NM

You'll find Arts and Crafts homes across the country in varying styles. On the East Coast, bungalows and Tudor Revivals fill the Boston area through New Jersey. In the West, Mission-style homes incorporate terracotta shingles, white stucco siding, and rounded archways.

In-law suite floor plans almost always include at least one bedroom, a bathroom, and a combination kitchen/living room area or separate spaces for the kitchen and living room. Larger in-law suites built in accessory dwelling units separate from your main structure can feature multiple bedrooms, dining rooms, and entertainment rooms in addition to the necessities.

Federal and Colonial architecture are similar in that they both appear mostly utilitarian and symmetrical, but Federal architecture is a bit more ornate. Federal design often includes decorative palladium windows, window lintels, and, sometimes, columns surrounding a more decorative portico. Inside, Federal architecture is set apart by its centrally-located oval room. Additionally, Federal homes tend to have brick facades, whereas Colonial homes more often have wood siding.

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.