The issue of determining which paint colour to place on the wall is not the challenge when you decide to remake your home, but the selection of the professional. In the design and build industry, the terms interior designer and interior decorator are used interchangeably, and they are two entirely distinct scopes of work.
We are convinced that knowing these roles will make the renovation process a stress-free time at Studio Kimi and the final result beautiful. You may be intending on a complete overhaul in Toronto, or are just thinking of updating your living room in Vancouver; this is all you need to know.
Designer or decorator – form vs. function
To put it in a nutshell, structural changes versus aesthetic styling is the difference.
An Interior Designer works on the skeletons of the house. They are concerned with the technical side of a space, such as building codes, accessibility, and structural integrity. An Interior Decorator, however, deals with the home’s clothing, the pieces, clothes and surfaces that help a room complete.
Who does what? Design and decor projects
The simplest method of deciding on who to hire is to view the bones of your project. Do you transport objects that are fixed, or do you modernise things that can be transported?
1. Project for an Interior Designer
The simplest method of deciding on who to hire is to view the bones of your project. Do you transport objects that are fixed, or do you modernise things that can be transported?
- Major Renovations – Removing or moving walls to create open-concept spaces.
- Kitchen & Bath Overhauls – Relocating plumbing, electrical outlets, or gas lines.
- Space Planning – Reconfiguring the footprint of a home to improve flow or accessibility.
- New Builds – Working alongside architects and contractors from the ground up to ensure the interior architecture is sound. This is what the design and build service providers like Studio Kimi do.
2. Project for an Interior Decorator
You need an Interior Decorator when your space is already functional but needs a visual and atmospheric update.
- Furniture & Layout – Sourcing new pieces and arranging them for better balance.
- Colour Consultations – Choosing paint, wallpaper, and fabric palettes.
- Window Treatments – Selecting custom blinds, curtains, and hardware.
- Styling & Accessories – Adding the final layers, art, rugs, lighting, and décor, to make a room feel finished.