This is a question I get a lot — I’m an interior designer.  The difference between the two? Short answer: an interior designer can be a decorator but interior decorators need further training to become an interior designer.

An interior designer analyzes the clients’ needs and presents suggestions/solutions about possible structural changes and functional space planning while making sure everything adheres to building codes.  When doing a new build or knocking down walls, they will complete construction packages/technical drawings to be submitted for building permits and may work closely with architects and engineers on bigger projects. Formal education/training and a two day exam are part of the stringent procedure to becoming certified.

An interior decorator is typically someone who furnishes a home, choosing furniture, accessories, paint colours, etc. and doesn’t need formal education/experience in order to do so.  They don’t need to attend classes to obtain industry credits throughout their practice and don’t have to know building codes when decorating. 

Project timelines vary depending on how much work you want done.  The ‘design process’ timeline below might help give you an idea of what goes into designing your dream space.

This also depends on how much work you want done.  The easiest way for me to give you a cost estimate would be reaching out to me and letting me know what you have in mind.  You can send me an email to begin the process and we can chat via video or a phone call so I can understand the scope of your project!