Interior Design vs Interior Decoration

The terms ‘interior design’ and ‘interior decoration’ often mean the same thing. As a result, those looking to make a career in the field are often confused about choosing interior design or decoration. However, there are several differences between them. 

Both interior design and decoration use elements like space, color, functionality, and other visually appealing features. However, the approach and focus of designing and decoration vary. Thus, confusion about interior design or decoration is natural. 

This blog will cover various aspects of interior design and decoration so that you can understand the differences. We will also discuss the career options for interior design vs decoration so you can easily choose between the two. 

What is Interior Design?

Interior design is the science and art of planning and designing the interiors of a space - it could be residential or commercial. In addition to making a space look good and functional, interior design also aims to make it safe and easy to use for everyone who lives there.  

One of the main aspects of interior design is meeting the requirements of the people who will use the space. Accessibility guidelines exist for both commercial and residential spaces, and interior design professionals must meet these guidelines to enhance the space's practical and functional value. 

What is Interior Decoration?

To understand interior decoration vs design, we need to know what interior decoration is. Interior decoration focuses on the visual look of a space and includes furniture, color schemes, decorative items, and other details that make the space attractive. 

Following interior decor trends, professionals use various accessories, furniture, upholstery, etc., to decorate a space. Thorough knowledge and ideas of room layouts, fabrics, furniture designs, and interior decor trends are necessary for successful interior decoration. 

Interior Design vs Interior Decoration: Difference in Principles

There is a set of core principles for both interior design and decoration. Here are the differences in the principles:

• Rhythm

In interior design, rhythm includes patterns and decorative items in a given space. The rhythm should be consistent, with similar objects, patterns, and colors repeated in different rooms. 

In interior decor, the rhythm is established by placing decorative items in the space. Color schemes also play a crucial role in establishing a flow from one room to another. 

• Scale and Proportion

A major difference between the principles of interior decoration and design is the scale and proportion of the designs. This principle concerns where objects and furniture are placed in a space and how these choices affect the overall look and feel of the area. 

In interior decoration, the idea is to choose the right size and proportion of the decor items or furniture for a particular space. For example, delicate and small decor items work best in smaller spaces, while heavy furniture and decor items look best in large spaces. 

• Details

Interior designing demands an eye for detail. Small changes in the design can make a huge difference in how a space looks. A dash of color, the floor tile pattern, the wall texture, etc, are subtle ways of enhancing the interior design of a place. 

When it comes to interior decor, the details include the items on display for decoration. The decor items should be in sync with the space's design. A combination of traditional interior design and contemporary decor items, and vice versa, will look out of place. 

• Balance

Creating a sense of balance throughout the space is essential in interior design. Furniture and objects need to be placed evenly to achieve this.

In interior decoration, the decor objects, furniture, and other items should be placed evenly. Looking around the room, the decor items are balanced evenly. 

Interior Design vs Decoration Career: Responsibilities of the Professionals

An interior designer is a professional who deals with interior design, whereas an Interior Decorator takes care of the interior decor of a residential or commercial space. When choosing an interior design or decoration career, you must check the responsibilities of the professionals before taking the final plunge. 

• Interior Designer Responsibilities

Interior designers must understand their clients' and customers' requirements, including their goals and motivations. They then implement the interior design principles and create a design that meets the client’s expectations. 

They also ensure the space follows accessibility standards, health and safety laws, and community rules. Making a space look good and work well is equally important for interior designers. 

Here are the key responsibilities of an Interior Designer:

• Understanding client requirements and budget
• Creating an interior design plan
• Making design sketches
• Finalizing designs and sharing them with clients
• Calculating the overall cost of design implementation
• Creating a deadline estimation for the project
• Requesting feedback from clients or asking if changes need to be made
• Interior Decorator Responsibilities

An Interior Decorator uses decorations like furniture, colors, and fabrics to make the space visually appealing. 

Some key responsibilities of an Interior Decorator are as follows:

• Client meetings to understand project requirements 
• Budget creation for decor materials and labor
• Estimating project timelines
• Creating sample designs
• Choosing decor materials like paint, furniture, fabrics, decor items, etc
• Managing the purchase of the decor materials
• Work supervision for the project

Interior Design or Decoration: Educational Qualifications

Whether choosing interior design or decoration as a career, you must have unique skills and solid theoretical knowledge to become a successful professional. Here are the educational requirements for becoming an Interior Designer or Decorator. 

• Educational Qualifications for Interior Decorators

Interior Decorators do not need a formal university degree or qualification for this profession. However, having a certification from a recognized university boosts the professional's valuation. 

• Educational Qualifications for Interior Designers

Aspiring Interior Designers can choose from various courses related to the subject. Many universities and institutes offer a Bachelor’s Degree in Interior Design. 

Many candidates opt for degree courses in Graphic Design, Fine Arts, and Architecture. They learn Interior Design later as part of an apprenticeship, on-the-job training, or a separate professional course. 

Diploma courses in interior design are also available, and they offer a combination of theoretical and practical skills. 

Conclusion

This blog covers the fundamentals of interior design vs interior decoration. An aspiring Interior Designer or Decorator can learn the difference between interior decoration vs design and decide which field to choose. Both professions have unique responsibilities and skills and demand creativity, innovation, aesthetic sense, and technical expertise. 

Interior design aspirants can enroll for a Bachelor of Design in Interior Design at ITM Institute of Design and Media. This is a full-time program offering internships and projects. 

Enrol for the course today and make a great career in interior design! 

Frequently Asked Questions

1) Is the Interior design market good?

The global market size of interior design was USD 180730 million in 2023. By 2030, it is estimated to reach USD 317870, with a CAGR of 8.3% from 2024 to 2030 (Source). Therefore, the interior design market will grow steadily in the coming years. 

2) Which stream is best for interior design and decor?

Candidates who have passed 12th grade can apply to an interior design and decor course. A specific grade or minimum percentage is required to study these courses. 

3) Who gets a better salary - an Interior Designer or an Interior Decorator?

Interior Designers have more duties than Decorators because they ensure a space is practical and attractive. Because of this, designers usually earn more money than decorators. 

4) What are the elements of interior design?

Interior Designers consider seven important elements when designing a space: line, space, color, pattern, form, texture, and light.