Finally, some furniture stores offer design services for a small charge, or in exchange for a minimum purchase. Will this can be a tempting option, it’s worth noting that in-store decorators are usually required to sell you pieces exclusively from their store’s inventory, so your choices will be limited and they will have a vested interest (namely earning commission) off of your purchases.
Just keep in mind that professional decorators are not required to have specific training, so the range of experience they bring to the job can vary a great deal. There are certifications available for interior decorators, but these are voluntary. Finally, it is important to understand that taste is a very subjective thing, so ask any professional decorators you are considering to show you samples of their work and to provide references.
An Interior Designer:
If you are looking for structural changes or updates to your home, an interior designer may be a better match for your needs. Like a professional decorator, an interior designer can also deal with the aesthetics of a room, or rooms, but in addition, the interior designer also brings more technical expertise to the project, so he or she can do general drafting and oversee the more technical aspects of a remodel, from helping you recreate your space, move walls, expand the footprint or add another floor to your home.
Interior designers are required to have formal education in the field, with a minimum of an associate’s degree, but many have bachelors or masters degrees. It is also important to note that some states today require that interior designers pass a stringent exam in order to be licensed, so you can expect these highly-qualified professionals to meet your high standards and be well-suited especially for larger, more extensive projects.
No matter whether you opt for a professional decorator or an interior designer, keep in mind that regardless of their formal training, many people in this field have their own areas of expertise. Some may specialize in capturing a sleeker, minimalist look, while others like to work with vintage styles and antiques. In addition, some perform mainly in residential settings, while others may offer services exclusively for commercial venues, such as corporations, restaurants and hotels.
Finding Your Style Guru
There are numerous ways to find a professional decorator or interior designer. One of the easiest, and most effective, strategies is to ask your family and friends for references. You can also look online or check your local or online phone directory for names of individuals and/or professional decorator or design firms in your area.
Another approach is to keep your eyes out in your daily travels for spaces that particularly appeal to your senses. If you see a restaurant, store or office whose look interests you, ask for the name of the professional decorator or interior designer on the project. In addition, call or visit the websites of national trade associations for a directory of local professionals. You can often search the listings by several different criteria to help narrow in on the best fit for your job.