Written by: Micah Rooke
Georgia CTAE Resource Network
2010
 These
terms describe two job descriptions
and education levels.
 Sometimes these terms are used incorrectly
due to the lack of information people have
about them.
 According to the dictionary definition….
 Let’s
find out…
Designer vs. Decorator
 Take
notes from the following information
presented.
Education

Designer must complete a bachelors degree in the field of
interior design.

Coursework includes the study of textiles and color, computer
aided design (CAD) technical drawing, furniture design, space
planning ergonomics, sustainability, building codes, and
architectural design.

Upon graduation most students take an apprenticeship with an
interior designer or an architectural firm to gain experience.
Continued…
Certification

Registration or licensing is required in many states.

To register as a designer, you must complete the NCIDQ exam.
This is a comprehensive exam to show knowledge in specific
areas. Before taking the exam you must have a combined six
years of education and experience in interior design. Two of
the years must be post secondary education in design.

Upon successful completion of the exam, the designer can
become a member of the American Society of Interior
Designers (ASID).

Interior designers must complete continuing education courses
to remain certified.
Continued…
Salary

Starting salaries can range from $22,000.00 to $40,000.00.

This range varies greatly based on location, specialization, and
type of employment.

With experience, designers can earn more than six figures per
year.

Freelance interior designers may see their annual salary
fluctuate depending on the flow of business but also have
great earning potential.
Continued…
Job Functions

Responsible for enhancing both the look and function of an
interior space and in some cases outdoor spaces.

Often work closely with architects and contractors to achieve
client goals while also adhering to safety standards and
building codes.

Pay close attention to space planning, ergonomics, lighting,
acoustics, and surface design elements, such as color and
textiles. May be involved with any phase of the construction
process.
Continued…
Concentrations

Residential Design

Commercial Design

Healthcare Design

Hospitality Design

Others specialties may include kitchen/bath/furniture and many
others
Continued…
Education

No formal training is required to be Decorator since the focus
is generally on aesthetics.

Many decorators choose to take design courses or study for an
associates degree, bachelor’s degree, or certificate in design
or decoration.

Clients are more likely to chose a decorator with some type of
formal education degree.
Continued…
Certification

There are no mandatory certification or exams for interior
decorators.

Voluntary exams include the DSA offered by the Design/Decorator
Society of America.

This exam measures knowledge of topics from room layouts and
space planning to client style evaluation and color psychology.
Continued…
Salary

Recent data shows interior decorators earn anywhere from
$20,000.00 to $80,000.00 per year.

Most interior decorators are self-employed and their annual
income can greatly fluctuate.

A strong client base is the key to being successful as a decorator.
Continued…
Job Functions

Decorators’ work with their clients to select elements of an
interior such as walls, textiles, lighting, furnishing, and flooring.

Decorators’ main concern is the surfaces within the living space.
They are not required to take into account building plans and
codes.

Decorators are usually hired to work on an existing space that
needs to be redecorated or updated. They may work on new
construction once the structural plans are completed.
Continued…
Concentrations

Residential interiors

Commercial interiors are usually on a larger scale and require a
designer who is more knowledgeable on building and fire codes
regarding any items specified for project.

Green/environmental design play a part in the role of a
decorator.

Many decorators find a niche in the market with certain
specialties such as traditional design and contemporary design.
Continued…

Now you know the difference between the two careers.

This will help you make better decisions as you prepare for your
future design career.

Many aspects take place into planning for your future. The more
knowledge you gain about your choices, the better decisions you
will make, which will result in a more satisfying and rewarding
career.