About Interior Design
In an earlier blog, we mentioned the facets of Interior Design. There are many different levels and pursuits in the field and the term ‘interior design’ is often used broadly to cover any aesthetic development of a space. These levels range anywhere from the highly trained and certified Interior Designers down to the local hobbyist. They each have their place in the scheme of things. But it’s important for each (and you as a client) to understand their strengths and limitations. Also, you need to know that you’re getting the expertise necessary for your project. So what is it that really sets them apart?
The hobbyist is usually someone with a flair for interior style but is often limited to current or recent trends or by their own style preferences. It can also include someone that has the talent but simply doesn’t want the very real burden of running a business.
An Interior Decorator is a less formal than an interior designer. They may or may not have any training but typically have passion, at least some talent, and a desire to provide more inexpensive services for those that just need a bit of help. Many will deal strictly in arrangement of furniture and accessories and may be able to assist in resourcing and choosing new additions that will keep to the theme. Most likely there will be less customization and concept representations will likely be less detailed A decorator cannot act as contractor or manage permits or approve structural changes.
ReDesign is a relatively new term for designers that focus more on what you have or is already existing (furniture you love, heirloom accessories, existing walls or plumbing). ReDesigner services are typically less expensive than an interior designer but more than those of a decorator with little or no training. Often the education of a ReDesigner is through more focused classes from an organization with experience in the field of design. These courses offer various certifications and may or may not have accreditation. This is a good place to mention color. Color is very complicated (1500 colors of ‘white’ ) and can make a huge impact on design. At this level your designer should have some training in color theory to ensure a cohesive and truly aesthetic design.
The Interior Designer should have extensive training and/or experience in various facets of design, construction, and regulations. If they are affiliated with a professional organization such as ASID they will have undergone verification and testing to certify proficiency in these areas and more. In residential Interior Design, most will aim for a truly unique and diverse look by designing custom furniture. They should provide quality renderings or sketches that show the concept, and using their professional resources, be able to accurately project and contract budgets and feasible timelines. Their training and resources can result in more expensive services. Some states have legal requirements regarding education and certifications for calling oneself an Interior Designer. In Texas, the industry is not regulated although there is a voluntary “registration” or Title Act. There are requirements for registered interior designers regarding training that will allow some additional capabilities and responsibilities similar to some afforded an architect or engineer. When working in commercial, industrial, or even most multi-unit residential structures, this level of training and certification are most often mandatory.
At Casual Elegance Home Styling, it is very important to us that you get the services that best fit your needs. We have training in design principles, color theory, and interior design as well of years of experience in many facets of design. Our goal is to make the process as easy as possible while make sure you get the room(s) that make you love being in them.