Interior Designer vs. Interior Decorator

Throughout the years “Interior Designer” and “Interior Decorator” have been used as if they are the same, but they are in fact very different professions. Interior design is defined as the professional and comprehensive practice of creating an interior environment that addresses, protects, and responds to human need(s). It is the art, science, and business planning of a creative, technical, sustainable, and functional interior solution that corresponds to the architecture of a space, while incorporating process and strategy, a mandate for well-being, safety, and health, with informed decisions about style and aesthetics. Interior Decoration is the furnishing or styling a place with beautiful things.

U.S. states & Canadian provinces have now passed laws requiring interior designers to be licensed or registered and to document their formal education and training. Here in Illinois, Interior Designers are required to earn the NCIDQ Certification in order to register with the State of Illinois. Interior Decorators require no formal training or licensure.

At Hart and Pine, we are professional Interior Designers. We are dedicated to creating spaces that not only adhere to codes and regulatory requirements, but are also functional, beautiful and meet all of your needs. Contact us today for your project!