What Is the Difference Between an Interior Designer and a Decorator?
By Laura Jayne Design
When planning a home transformation, many people use the terms interior designer and interior decorator interchangeably. But while the two roles can overlap, they are distinct professions with different expertise, training, and responsibilities.
In this guide, Laura Jayne Design breaks down the key differences between interior designers and decorators, so you know exactly who to hire — and why it matters.
What Is the Difference Between an Interior Designer and a Decorator?
By Laura Jayne Design
When planning a home transformation, many people use the terms interior designer and interior decorator interchangeably. But while the two roles can overlap, they are distinct professions with different expertise, training, and responsibilities.
In this guide, Laura Jayne Design breaks down the key differences between interior designers and decorators, so you know exactly who to hire — and why it matters.
What Is an Interior Designer?
An interior designer is a trained professional who plans and executes the interior layout of a space — not just how it looks, but how it functions.
Qualifications and Training
Interior designers often hold formal qualifications or degrees in design, architecture, or spatial planning. In the UK, many are members of recognised bodies such as:
- BIID (British Institute of Interior Design)
- SBID (Society of British & International Interior Design)
This education covers:
- Interior architecture
- Building codes and safety regulations
- Lighting design and acoustics
- Space planning and ergonomics
- CAD software and technical drawings
What Is an Interior Designer?
An interior designer is a trained professional who plans and executes the interior layout of a space — not just how it looks, but how it functions.
Qualifications and Training
Interior designers often hold formal qualifications or degrees in design, architecture, or spatial planning. In the UK, many are members of recognised bodies such as:
- BIID (British Institute of Interior Design)
- SBID (Society of British & International Interior Design)
This education covers:
- Interior architecture
- Building codes and safety regulations
- Lighting design and acoustics
- Space planning and ergonomics
- CAD software and technical drawings
What Does an Interior Designer Do?
At Laura Jayne Design, our role goes far beyond fabrics and colour palettes. We:
- Reconfigure layouts (walls, doors, windows, lighting)
- Coordinate with architects, builders, and trades
- Source furnishings, fittings, and bespoke joinery
- Create mood boards, 3D renders, and full design concepts
- Oversee project timelines and budgets
Interior designers are involved from concept to completion and can work on both renovations and new builds.
What Is an Interior Decorator?
An interior decorator, by contrast, focuses on the visual styling of a space after its layout is already in place.
What Do Decorators Typically Do?
Decorators are excellent at helping you:
- Choose colour schemes
- Pick furniture, artwork, and accessories
- Coordinate soft furnishings like curtains and cushions
- Style shelves, surfaces, and walls
Decorators do not generally alter structural layouts or coordinate trades. Their work typically begins after building work is complete.
Do Decorators Need Formal Training?
While many decorators are highly talented and experienced, the profession is less regulated than interior design. Some decorators may come from fashion, art, or retail backgrounds.
Interior Designer vs Decorator: Key Differences
Feature | Interior Designer | Interior Decorator |
Education | Often holds degree/certification | Not always formally trained |
Structural changes | Yes (walls, lighting, layouts) | No |
Design planning | Full layout planning & technical detail | Surface-level aesthetic changes |
Trades & contractors | Coordinates with professionals | Not typically involved |
Software/technical drawings | Yes | Rarely used |
Project scope | Start to finish | Styling phase only |
So, Who Should You Hire?
Choose an Interior Designer If:
- You’re renovating, extending, or reconfiguring space
- You need technical plans and help with layout
- You want a full design-to-installation service
Choose a Decorator If:
- Your layout is already finalised
- You need help styling an existing space
- You want assistance with colours and soft furnishings only
Can Someone Be Both?
Yes — and Laura Jayne Design offers the best of both. With formal design training and a passion for styling, we provide:
- Technical interior design expertise
- Beautiful, high-end decorative finishes
- End-to-end project management
This ensures a cohesive result, whether you’re remodelling a kitchen or refreshing a sitting room.
Laura Jayne Interior Design
Understanding the difference between an interior designer and a decorator ensures you hire the right expert for your project.
At Laura Jayne Design, we blend both disciplines — combining structural expertise with aesthetic flair — so your home looks exceptional and works beautifully for your lifestyle.
