Interior designers Janelle Patton and Ali Ames in Lark Interior's studio

I’ve been called a lot of things on job sites. I’ve been called an interior decorator in Fort Worth, TX. I’ve been called an interior designer in Dallas, TX. I’ve even been called “sugar” and “sweetheart” on a rural Texas construction project. And while I’ll answer to any of the above (possibly with a slight eye-roll), there is a difference between an interior designer and a decorator. It’s not all semantics.

If I were writing an SAT question, I might put it this way: while all interior designers are decorators, not all decorators are interior designers. The Venn diagram would look something like this.

Interior designer vs. Interior decorator

But infographics aside, the difference between a decorator and an interior designer is fairly simple: while both decorators and interior designers work to make homes more beautiful, interior designers have different qualifications, provide more technical work-product, and have different resources they bring to a project.

Here’s Lark Interior’s guide to the difference between an interior designer and a decorator.

Difference #1: Qualifications & Education

Lark Interior's architectural lead, Ali Ames, marks up a floorplan

First and foremost, there is a difference between a decorator’s and an interior designer’s qualifications and education. Interior designers are professionals who undergo rigorous education and training to develop their skills and knowledge. Typically, this education involves subjects like architectural principles, space planning, materials, and finishes, as well as color theory, lighting, and acoustics. They also learn about building codes, regulations, and the principles of sustainable design, which have become increasingly important in modern design practices.

Basically, interior designers have the education and experience required to understand construction drawings and how a construction site operates. At Lark Interiors, this is especially true. Lark Interiors is somewhat unique among interior design firms in Texas in that our lead designer, Ali Ames, not only has an architecture degree from University of Oklahoma, but she also has ten years of experience working in residential architecture at top Dallas and Oklahoma architectural firms.

As a result, when it comes to residential interior design, Lark Interiors does it all. We draw and provide the permit set for all renovation projects we work on. No need to add an architect to the mix! These permit sets include: the roof plan, the electrical plan, the floorplan, the exterior elevations, and the door and window schedules. Each of these are highly technical documents and not something a decorator can provide.

Difference #2: Scope of Work Provided

An example of the sort of detailed and technical drawings Lark Interiors provides clients.

Both decorators and interior designers can provide the selections for your home. “Selections” is industry speak for the list of the specific materials that will be used in your construction project. Examples of selections are the type of tile for your shower wall, or the exact type and finish of your kitchen faucet.

Both decorators and interior designers typically gather these selections into a list or spreadsheet, making it easy for the builder to purchase the materials for the client’s home.

Unlike decorators, however, interior designers go one CRITICAL step further in the work-product they provide. Interior designers provide detailed drawings called “construction documents” that tell the builder exactly how each material should be installed.

For instance, rather than just specifying that a countertop should be Pink Flamingo marble, an interior designer's construction documents would make the same specification, but they would also provide drawings that specify the countertop overhang depth, the backsplash height, the countertop edge style, and dimensions of any specialty details involved. This extra step of providing all the drawings (we call it “idiot-proofing”) is essential when dealing with expensive materials, as it prevents waste and mistakes.

In the example below, the countertop fabricator took our CAD drawings and input them into their computer so that their cuts came out perfectly. This allowed us to maximize the use of a very expensive slab of stone.

Another example: a decorator might pick kitchen cabinet hardware for you, but a designer will pick kitchen cabinet hardware AND provide a drawing of how and where it should be installed

And since this is an interior design blog, here’s a visual example:

Get it? Decorators = pretty. Interior designers = pretty + technical.

Interior designers provide more detailed construction drawings than decorators, as illustrated in the bathroom above.

Difference #3: The Resources They Bring to a Project

Another difference between an interior decorator and an interior designer is the resources they bring to a project.

Trade Resources:

Since an established company is often a prerequisite for trade accounts with many good furniture manufacturers, interior designers typically have deeper resources in this department. While decorators can shop at showrooms, designers can buy direct from manufacturers–greatly reducing the cost to the client for the same product.

Manpower:

While it’s not always the case, generally decorators are solo-entrepreneurs Interior designers, however, tend to be part of an interior design firm. Teams, as a rule, have more resources and education at their disposal than people working on their own. Our team, at Lark Interiors, has an incredible breadth of knowledge – with each person bringing something difference and unique. We wouldn’t be the same without each other. Just as Shea McGee wouldn’t be the same without her team at Studio McGee and Amber Lewis wouldn’t be the same without her team.

In conclusion, the distinction between interior designers and decorators in Dallas lies in their education, scope of work, and resources. Interior designers are extensively trained and handle the structural and aesthetic elements of a space, reflecting their clients unique style – whether it’s contemporary, traditional, transitional, or modern.

Subcontractor Connections:

Interior designers (unlike decorators) spend half of our working hours on construction sites. As a result, we know a LOT of subcontractors. We have a fantastic wallpaper guy, a terrific trim carpenter, and a killer cabinet-maker. So when your builder says “I can’t find someone to make that fluted cast stone fireplace” we can jump in and use our connections to make it happen.

This deep rolodex means your favorite design detail won’t get overlooked just because it’s “hard” to execute. We got your back and know who to call to make it happen.

When Should I Opt for an Interior Designer over an Interior Decorator?

When you need an expert in construction:

If you're embarking on a home renovation or redesign in Dallas, it's crucial to understand how an interior designer can elevate your project. Beyond the different qualifications, work product, and resources they bring, interior designers are also experts in collaboration—another significant difference between designers and decorators.

Interior designers don't just decorate a space; we orchestrate a symphony of professionals to bring a cohesive vision to life. At Lark Interiors, we believe that a successful project is one where every element—architectural details, finishes, furnishings, and decor—works together. This requires more than just a good eye; it requires the ability to communicate effectively with contractors, architects, and other trades.

And you’re in luck – because interior designers speak “builder.”

When you work with an interior designer, you're not just hiring someone to pick out pretty things. You're bringing on a project manager, a design visionary, and a team leader who ensures that every aspect of your home is executed with precision. This collaborative approach minimizes errors, reduces stress, and ensures that the final result is not just beautiful but also functional and tailored to your lifestyle.

Lark Interior's principal designer, Janelle Patton, on-site at a Westlake, Texas new build to ensure pendants are hung at the correct height.

When you are building a custom home:

Another reason to opt for an interior designer over a decorator is the level of customization you'll receive. While decorators can certainly make a space look attractive, interior designers dig deeper to create solutions that are uniquely suited to your home's architecture and your personal needs.

At Lark Interiors, we start every project with a comprehensive analysis of the space and how you live in it. We consider factors like traffic flow, natural light, and how different rooms relate to one another. This allows us to create layouts and designs that not only look stunning but also work seamlessly with your daily routine.

For example, if you love to entertain, we'll ensure that your kitchen and dining areas are designed for both functionality and style, with easy access to outdoor spaces if you enjoy al fresco dining. Or, if you need a home office that doubles as a guest room, we'll design custom built-ins and multifunctional furniture to make the most of every square foot.

This level of personalization is what sets interior designers apart. We don't just decorate; we design spaces that enhance your quality of life, adding value to your home and making it a true reflection of you.

When You Are Planning for the Long-Term Value of Your Home:

One of the most significant advantages of working with an interior designer is the long-term value they bring to your home. Interior designers think beyond the immediate project, considering how your home will function and look years down the line. This foresight is especially important in a city like Dallas, where the real estate market is competitive, and buyers are looking for homes with thoughtful, high-quality design.

By investing in a professional interior designer, you're not just making your home more beautiful for today—you're also increasing its market value for the future. Well-designed spaces with custom features, high-end finishes, and functional layouts are always in demand, and they can make a significant difference when it's time to sell.

At Lark Interiors, we pride ourselves on creating timeless designs that age gracefully. Our goal is to ensure that your home remains a source of joy and inspiration for years to come, whether you're living in it or considering selling it down the road.

The Lark Interiors Difference: Why Choose Us for Your Dallas Project?

In a city as vibrant and diverse as Dallas, there are many interior designers and decorators to choose from. So, why should you choose Lark Interiors? The answer lies in our unique combination of architectural expertise, creative vision, and commitment to our clients..

With a lead designer who has a strong background in architecture, and a team that thrives on collaboration, we offer a level of service that goes beyond standard decorating. We don’t just make spaces look good; we make them work beautifully for you, ensuring every detail is thoughtfully planned and executed.

Whether you’re renovating a charming home in Highland Park or designing a sleek loft in Downtown Dallas, Lark Interiors has the experience, resources, and passion to bring your vision to life. We understand the nuances of the local market, we know the best tradespeople, and we have access to exclusive resources that make all the difference in creating a space that’s uniquely yours.

If you’re ready to transform your home with the help of a dedicated and talented design team, look no further than Lark Interiors. Let’s work together to create a space you’ll love for years to come.