In the world of spatial design, two terms often cause confusion: interior designer and decorator. Although both professionals work to improve environments, our approaches and specialties are very different. Understanding the difference between an interior designer and a decorator will help you make the best decision for your project and achieve results that truly transform your space.
What is an interior designer? Definition and key functions
An interior designer is a professional specializing in the comprehensive design of interior spaces, combining technical, aesthetic, and functional knowledge to create environments that optimize both the beauty and the habitability of a space.
Interior design in architecture goes far beyond superficial decoration. A professional interior designer is responsible for:
- Structural analysis of the space: Evaluates the possibilities for modifying partitions, electrical and plumbing installations.
- Functional distribution: Optimizes spaces according to the user’s specific needs.
- Custom furniture design: Creates personalized solutions that perfectly adapt to the space and lifestyle. If this is a service you are interested in, we suggest you consult how we can help you with furniture design in Mallorca.
- Technical coordination: Supervises the project execution from design to final delivery.
- Selection of specialized materials: Chooses finishes that meet both aesthetic and durability and functionality criteria.
I, Virginia Pérez, as an interior designer, understand the meaning of my work as something that goes beyond creating beautiful spaces: it is about designing experiences that improve the quality of life of those who inhabit these spaces.
What is a decorator? Definition and scope of their work
A decorator focuses primarily on the aesthetic and ornamental aspects of an existing space. Their work is centered on the selection and arrangement of decorative elements to achieve a visually appealing environment.
The main functions of a decorator include:
- Furniture selection: Chooses pieces that fit the desired style.
- Color and texture combination: Creates harmonious chromatic palettes.
- Arrangement of decorative objects: Organizes elements such as paintings, plants, cushions, and accessories.
- Shopping advice: Recommends specific products to complete the decoration.
- Space styling: Is responsible for the final touch that gives personality to the environment.
You might be interested in this article: How to maximize small spaces, design and functionality solutions.
The difference between an interior designer and a decorator: A comparative table
| Aspect | Interior Designer | Decorator |
|---|---|---|
| Project Scope | Comprehensive: from structural modifications to final decoration | Aesthetic: decorative elements and furniture |
| Technical Training | Knowledge of construction, installations, regulations | Knowledge of aesthetics, trends, art history |
| Main Functions | Spatial distribution, custom furniture, technical coordination | Furniture selection, color combination, styling |
| Work Objective | Completely transform the functionality and aesthetics of the space | Improve the visual appearance of existing spaces |
| Project Duration | Long-term comprehensive projects | Faster, specific interventions |
| Required Investment | Higher initial investment, greater long-term value | Lower investment, more immediate results |
The difference between a decorator and an interior designer is clear: while a decorator beautifies what already exists, an interior designer completely reimagines and transforms the potential of a space.
Beyond theory: My experience as an interior designer
Let me tell you about a recent project that perfectly illustrates the difference between interior design and traditional interior decorating. A family in Palma de Mallorca contacted me because their house, although beautiful, did not work for their current lifestyle. They had three small children and needed every square meter to be useful, without sacrificing elegance.
A decorator would have worked with the existing layout, changing furniture and colors. They would have achieved beautiful work, of course. I, as an interior designer, went a bit further: I completely redesigned the floor plan, created custom hidden storage, modified the kitchen to turn it into the social heart of the house, and designed specific furniture that would grow with the children.
The result was a house that truly works for this family. This is what interior design means: creating life experiences, not just visual environments.
The power of details and ‘turnkey’ solutions
My comprehensive approach allows me to offer turnkey projects that go from the initial concept to the last decorative detail. This approach has unique advantages:
- Total project coherence: When the same vision guides both structural and aesthetic decisions, the result is a perfectly harmonized space where every element has its reason for being.
- Complete support: My clients do not have to coordinate multiple professionals or make technical decisions they are not familiar with. I take care of the entire process, always keeping the client informed and respecting their preferences.
- Budget optimization: By controlling the entire process, I can optimize costs without compromising quality, investing more where it really makes a difference and being more efficient in less critical aspects.
- Custom furniture: I design and manufacture unique pieces that make the most of every space and perfectly reflect my clients’ personal style.
How much does it cost to hire an interior designer?
The question about the price of hiring an interior designer is understandable, but the answer is not simple because each project is unique. The cost of a comprehensive interior design project depends on several factors:
- Project scope: Structural modifications, new installations, and custom furniture require a greater investment than superficial interventions.
- Material quality: We work with high-quality materials that guarantee durability and long-term beauty.
- Level of customization: The more specific the client’s needs, the greater the custom design work will be.
- Size and complexity of the space: An 80m² apartment does not require the same investment as a 300m² house.
The important thing is to understand that hiring a professional interior designer is an investment that adds real value to your property and significantly improves your quality of life. Unlike superficial decoration that can become obsolete in a few years, a good interior design project is designed to last and evolve with you.
Inspiring references: From theory to practice
The world of interior design is full of extraordinary professionals who constantly inspire us. Famous interior designers like Kelly Wearstler, with her ability to mix the contemporary with the classic, or Patricia Urquiola, a master at creating spaces that are true works of functional art, show us that interior design can be both poetry and engineering.
I especially admire professionals like Ilse Crawford, who understands interior design as the creation of complete sensory experiences, or Lorenzo Castillo, who shows how true luxury is in the details and the timelessness of design.
These references remind me that quality interior design transcends passing trends to create spaces that genuinely improve people’s lives.
Discover: Technological interior design, transforming spaces into innovation
When should you hire an interior designer?
A team like mine is ideal if you are looking for:
- Turnkey projects: If you want to forget about coordinating different professionals and have a single point of contact responsible for the final result. I take care of everything from the initial design to placing the last cushion.
- Comprehensive kitchen design: Kitchens are the heart of many homes. I design kitchens that combine maximum functionality with exceptional aesthetics, taking into account both the culinary and social needs of each family.
- Custom furniture: When you need specific solutions that you can’t find on the market. We design and manufacture unique furniture that makes the most of every inch and reflects your personality.
- Restaurant projects: We understand that in the hospitality sector, every detail influences the customer experience. We create spaces that are not only beautiful but also optimize the business’s operational efficiency.
- Interior design focused on Mallorca: As a specialist in interior design projects in Mallorca, I know the architectural particularities of the island, the best local suppliers, and how to take advantage of the Mediterranean light to create unique environments. We prioritize local materials and solutions that respect the island’s natural environment.
Ready to start your transformation? Contact me and discover how I can turn your vision into reality.
Want to be inspired by my previous projects? Take a look at my portfolio and discover the infinite possibilities of comprehensive interior design.
