Interior Decorator vs. Interior Designer

For me, the answer is clear—I’m an interior decorator. Recently, I was asked if I was an interior designer or an interior decorator, and it got me thinking about the distinct roles each of these professionals plays in creating beautiful, functional spaces. While both are essential in shaping the environments we live and work in, I’ve always felt a deeper connection to the role of an interior decorator. It’s not just about the aesthetic—it’s about the entire experience of a space, and that’s where I thrive.

When I think about the difference between an interior designer and an interior decorator, I realize why I consider myself a decorator. For me, the joy is in creating spaces that feel like home—spaces that are visually engaging, comfortable, and uniquely personal. I don’t necessarily focus on things like structural design or blueprints, but rather on the elements that make a space come alive. The colors, textures, furniture, lighting, and accessories are what tie everything together. It’s about the thoughtful layering of details that transform a room from a mere living space to a place where memories are made, where people feel relaxed and at ease.

As an interior decorator, I’m not bound by the rules of architecture or engineering; instead, I focus on the artistry of design. I see my role as someone who takes a blank canvas or an existing space and adds depth, warmth, and personality to it. I love the challenge of working with what’s already there—reimagining old furniture, refreshing color schemes, or simply introducing a few new pieces that instantly change the feel of the room. It’s about finding beauty in what’s already present, and enhancing it with thoughtful design choices.

I’m particularly drawn to the way the smallest changes can make the biggest impact. A new throw pillow, a piece of art, or a carefully chosen plant can completely transform the mood of a space. It’s amazing how these small details can breathe life into a room, turning it from something ordinary into something extraordinary. Decorating is about more than just following trends or creating a picture-perfect space; it’s about crafting an atmosphere that speaks to the people who live there. It’s about telling a story through style and creating a sense of identity in every corner of a room.

Decorating is an art of balancing the big picture with the smallest of details. It's a delicate process of layering textures, colors, and furniture in a way that not only makes the space look beautiful but also makes it feel right. Every choice matters—from the way a couch is placed to how light pours through the windows at different times of day. To me, it’s not just about making a room “look good.” It’s about making it feel good. And that’s what I love most about decorating—the ability to shape an environment that inspires joy, comfort, and a sense of belonging even in a college dorm room.

At the end of the day, I believe the true power of decorating lies in its ability to transform not just a room, but a person’s experience of the world around them. It’s about creating spaces where people feel grounded, inspired, and at home—spaces that elevate everyday life and make the ordinary feel extraordinary.