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Interior Designer vs Interior Decorator: What's the Difference?

10 August 2026
Interior Designer vs Interior Decorator: What's the Difference?

When planning a home improvement project, many homeowners use the terms interior designer and interior decorator interchangeably. While both professionals help create beautiful spaces, their roles are very different.


Understanding the difference can help you choose the right expert for your project, whether you're refreshing a room or undertaking a full home refurbishment in London.


What Does an Interior Designer Do?


An interior designer works on both the appearance and functionality of your home.


Their role often includes:


Space planning

Room layouts

Lighting design

Kitchen and bathroom design

Material and finish selection

Bespoke joinery

Working alongside architects and builders

Managing the design process from concept to completion


Interior designers consider how every room functions, ensuring the finished space is practical as well as beautiful.


What Does an Interior Decorator Do?


An interior decorator focuses primarily on the visual appearance of an existing space.


Their work may include:


Selecting furniture

Choosing paint colours

Styling accessories

Curtains and soft furnishings

Artwork and decorative pieces


Decorators usually work once the structural aspects of a home have already been completed.


Which Professional Do You Need?


If you're planning:


A kitchen renovation

Bathroom redesign

Home refurbishment

Property extension

Layout changes

Bespoke storage


An interior designer is usually the best choice.


If your layout already works well and you're simply updating the décor, an interior decorator may be suitable.


Why Hire an Interior Designer for a Refurbishment?


Home refurbishments involve many decisions.


An interior designer helps by:


Planning layouts that improve everyday living

Maximising natural light

Choosing timeless materials

Coordinating contractors

Avoiding costly mistakes

Creating a cohesive design throughout the property


Professional planning often saves homeowners both time and money.


The Benefits of Professional Design


Working with an interior designer gives you access to expert knowledge that goes far beyond colour schemes.


You'll benefit from:


Better use of space

Increased property value

High-quality finishes

A smoother renovation process

A home designed specifically around your lifestyle

Planning Your Home Transformation


Whether you're redesigning one room or your entire property, choosing the right professional is an important first step.


At Narulas Design Studio, we specialise in bespoke interior design for homeowners across London, helping clients create homes that combine timeless style with practical living.


If you're planning a home refurbishment in London, we'd love to hear about your project.


Contact Narulas Design Studio today:


https://narulasdesignstudio.com/contact