An interior designer is professionally trained to create a functional and quality interior environment. Qualified through education, experience and examination, a professional designer can identify, research and creatively resolve issues and lead to a healthy, safe and comfortable physical environment.
A decorator fashions the "look" of a space and its outward decoration—paint, fabric, furnishings, light fixtures and other materials. In addition to enhancing the total visual environment, an interior designer creates a space that is functional, efficient and safe.
Among the many areas of expertise a professional designer commands are
- Space planning and utilization, including organizational and storage needs
- Long-term project and lifestyle planning
- National, state and local building codes
- Safety and accessibility
- Ergonomics
- Design for people with special needs
- Conservation and “green” design
- Historic restoration
- Interior detailing of background elements, such as wall and ceiling designs
- Custom design of furniture, drapery and accessories
- Selection of appliances, plumbing fixtures and flooring materials
- Acoustics and sound transmission
- Audiovisual and communication technology
- Construction documents and specifications
For more information, see the definition of interior design developed by the National Council for Interior Design Qualification.