If you’ve ever Googled “interior design help,” you’ve probably felt like you stumbled into a rabbit hole. Interior designers, decorators, stylists… who does what? And more importantly, who do you need to call? Don’t worry—I’ve got you covered with a fun, no-jargon breakdown of the designer vs. decorator debate.
First Up: Interior Designers—The Big Picture Pros
Think of interior designers as your space superheroes. They don’t just pick out throw pillows—they’re drafting layouts, reimagining rooms, and juggling floor plans like pros. They’re trained in architectural elements, functionality, safety, and style, making them the go-to for projects involving renovations or tricky spaces. Professional Interior Designers will get the job done right, the first time.
Designers are like those friends who can sketch out your dream kitchen on a napkin, but they also manage contractors, recommend durable materials, and somehow make every inch of space count. Basically, they’ll handle everything from “Where does the couch go?” to “How do we rewire this wall for better lighting?” If you have someone like this in your life, don't let them go.
Now Meet Interior Decorators—The Style Gurus
Interior decorators are the artists of the design world. Their superpower? Turning a space from drab to fab by layering textures, colors, and decor that reflect your personality. They might not move walls or mess with construction, but they’ll make sure your room feels cohesive and camera-ready on a budget YOU can afford. (cough-cough).
Decorators don’t necessarily need a formal degree—they’re often self-taught or have certifications. But what they do have is an eye for style and the ability to stretch a budget (yes, that IKEA hack was their idea). They’re perfect for smaller projects, quick refreshes, or when you just want someone to say, “Girl, that rug is not working here.”
Thanks to the widespread popularity and accessibility of skill-sharing and educational platforms such as Udemy and Skillshare, interior decorators are now equipped with a wealth of resources that provide them with many of the same tools, techniques, and knowledge as seasoned industry professionals. These platforms offer various courses and tutorials covering everything from color theory and space planning to the latest trends in home decor, allowing decorators to continuously update their skills and stay ahead in the ever-evolving world of interior design. As a result, decorators can confidently tackle projects with a professional edge, ensuring that they deliver stylish and functional spaces that meet their clients' needs and preferences.
Who Should You Call?
That comes down to what you want to do, and how much money you are willing to invest.
• Call a professional Interior Designer if you’re knocking down walls, tackling renovations like a kitchen or bath, or creating a space from scratch. Hiring an interior designer typically will never cost you less than $3,000. A quality, professional service will cost more than your next two options.
Remember, you always get what you pay for.
• Call a Designer if you’ve got a room that’s almost there but needs some finishing touches to shine. You may lack inspiration or time, so hand the job to a designer who can finish your project faster. On average, try to have at least $1,500 saved or more. Designers are great for anyone who wants to make small to medium changes on a budget.
• Call a Decorator if you're craving a space you'll love on a budget and timeline you can handle. Perhaps you're getting ready to move and want to imagine your new space before you get there. Or maybe you need to blend a space for a roommate or create a nursery. Decorators will create a unique home that feels like you because they are obsessed with finding your style and what makes you feel at home. A good decorator will complete your project and knock your socks off, but a great decorator will teach you how to do it yourself, in any room, for the rest of your life. Hi, that's me!
What We’re About
Here at Be Happy You’re Home, we’re all about teaching you how to DIY your way to a space you love—whether you’re dreaming big with designer plans or adding decorator vibes to your rental. Through workshops, guides, and personalized feedback, we’ll walk you through the process step by step, from picking a paint color to finding the perfect layout.
Ready to Learn?
Our express classes are designed for anyone who wants to take control of their space—whether you’re a design newbie or just tired of rearranging furniture for the 100th time.
Let’s skip the cookie-cutter look and create a space that’s all you.
P.S. Feeling stuck? Grab our free guides to kick off your design journey! Find them here.