As interior decorators, we are often asked how our job differs from that of an interior designer or stylist. It’s a fair question as in many respects there is some cross-over between the three disciplines. But at the same time there are some aspects of each role that are distinctive.

If you’re considering hiring a professional to help you with your home, it’s important to know what these differences are so you can choose the right service for your project.

What’s an interior stylist?
Interior stylists are better known for their work in magazines and other visual media. But growing numbers of them are offering their styling services to homeowners.

Their primary job is to beautify spaces by either adding, editing or collating items. This is the magic in their skill – they can change the complexion of any room without any structural alterations.You would call a stylist, if your home or room just needs a touch-up to make it sing.

What about an interior decorator?
There are definite overlaps between interior stylists and interior decorators. Both professions focus heavily on the aesthetics of an interior space. Decorators pay close attention to colour and fabrics, and how a space is planned. They also provide advice on decorative finishes, furniture and accessories.

Often an interior decorator’s job is to refresh your home without engaging in any structural renovation or alterations. Even so, decorators often work closely with building and design professionals such as architects, lighting and kitchen designers, and suppliers in order to deliver their client’s requirements.

Unlike interior stylists, decorators typically have some job-related educational qualifications, such as a certificate or diploma. Or sometimes they have vocational training such as serving a number of years as an apprentice or assistant to an experienced interior designer or decorator.

And what’s an interior designer?
Interior design is sometimes known as ‘spatial design’ or ‘interior architecture’, and an interior designer offers a broader range of services than an interior decorator or stylist.

Interior designers have typically undertaken significant formal training university (courses take around four years), and in some countries they require formal industry registration in order to work. This education allows the designer to work comfortably within the broader architectural community.

In a nutshell, interior designers can design a room from scratch inside any house or building. This can include structural alterations, such as removing walls, and designing new kitchens and bathrooms, as well as decorative changes such as creating cabinetry and specifying custom carpentry. Often, interior designers will work closely with an architect to create the complete package for a home.

I hope this has been some help….