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Not sure whether you need to hire an interior designer or an interior decorator?

These terms are often used interchangeably. As a result, many clients believe they need interior design services in Toronto when they actually need interior decoration services or vice versa.

While there can be some overlap between the two professions, there are also some clear differences. Knowing these differences can help you determine which services you might need for your home or business.

Let’s look at a few of the biggest differences between an interior designer and an interior decorator—from their roles and everyday duties to their education and credential requirements!

Role

Simply put, the role of interior designers is to plan, design, and renovate space. They are primarily concerned with making sure that home and business spaces are functional and that they improve the quality of life of those who use them. As they are often involved with design on a structural level, they must understand and meet local building codes and regulations.

The role of interior decorators, on the other hand, is to help the client with a space’s aesthetics—including room layouts, furniture arrangements, wall décor, colour palettes, and more. They usually become involved once the space has already been designed, built, or renovated.

While these roles are distinct, there are times when an interior designer may also take on the duties of an interior decorator.

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Clients

Interior designers will sometimes work directly with homeowners and property managers; but more often than not, they coordinate with architects and other contractors in developing plans for the project.

Interior decorators typically work with homeowners, business managers, and property managers directly. They may coordinate with vendors—such as furniture and paint companies—when decorating a space.

Education

Interior designers and interior decorators have very different educational requirements. To become an interior designer, one will typically need to earn an associate’s or bachelor’s degree, or their equivalent. Coursework should include subjects such as colour theory, materials and applications, computer-aided design (CAD), and more.

To become an interior decorator, however, formal training is not typically required. With that said, a degree in a relevant field may prove helpful—both for landing a job as an interior decorator and for performing the job itself.

Credentials

While there are no credential requirements at the federal level in Canada or the United States, certain provinces and states require interior designers to be licensed and registered. This will typically involve passing an exam, and subsequently, earning a certificate through the National Council for Interior Design Qualification (NCIDQ).

As for interior decorators, there are no credential requirements at the federal, provincial, or state levels. With that said, there are organizations—namely, Certified Interior Decorators (C.I.D.)—that offer all types of courses, programs, and certifications for interior decorating.

For more inspiration, visit our website to see our portfolio, read testimonials or get in touch.

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TESTIMONIALS

“Rob and I just wanted to let you know how HAPPY HAPPY we are with Miriam. She is absolutely amazing – she truly knows what she is talking about and her EXPERT advise helps with the decisions and what pieces we want to order. She does care about her customers and making them have a very nice look in their home. Simply something that I thought would be nice to share.”

– Julie

“My wife and I have been working with Kevin for over 3 years. He is attentive to every detail and has helped bring our vision into a reality. He also helped us select items for our office. Highly recommend him for his interior design services.”

– Karnjit

“Absolutely love my experience at Direct Interiors. From the day I walked in, to the delivery of the furniture, everything went smoothly! I’ve been working with DeeDee. Her attention to details is second to none. I’ve had many ideas and pictures for my furniture and lighting selections. She was able to source pretty much every piece at unbeatable prices.”

– Yulia

“Excellent patient sales people full of knowledge and not pushy see Dee Dee she was great and got me exactly what I wanted and showed me spending more money is better long term having a piece that is a statement and built solid so you will have it in 20 years.”

– Jeff

“Best place for high quality furniture. Vanessa decorated my entire house, I couldn’t be more pleased!”

– Niusha

“Excellent prices and quality designer assistance. Bring several pics of the room and any samples of colours you can (eg wall paint, flooring, etc) … Many of the items come in a variety of wood types and stain colours so this is essential to help you chose.”

– Shelley

“Vanessa and her team are fantastic, their service and design expertise are phenomenal. “

– Rocky

“Great customer service, timely delivery, excellent quality”

– Nataile Froom

“Excellent service with Mani! Very helpful and pleasant”

– Anita B

“My salesperson, Lina, is the soul of patience. I am a decorator, and frequently bring my clients to Direct Interiors because of their wide and beautiful selection. For my most recent shopping excursion, Lina readily provided multiple quotes while my clients weighed all options. She researched alternatives for pieces that weren’t available. She was a fantastic resource as usual.

I have always found the sales and support staff at Direct to be very accommodating and service oriented. I highly recommend Direct Interiors to design professionals and anyone who is interested in creating a beautiful home.”

– Mary Bannet

“I worked directly with Kevin Chiu who is a great designer. He has excellent product knowledge and knows all the options available through various different brands and manufacturers. Kevin is very attentive, provides excellent customer service, and my experience from start to end was fantastic! I am very pleased with all the items we selected and I would highly recommend!!! “

– Anita Pastor

“Thanks so much for helping redecorate our home! Worked closely with Vanessa, Tessa and Katie who were all fantastic throughout the entire process. Very highly recommended!”

– Mike Gareri

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Sculptural Beauty Meets Modern Comfort... 💎

With its curvaceous silhouette upholstered in soft taupe bouclé and framed by rich espresso wood, the Hudson Chaise is as much a sculptural masterpiece as it is a functional, comfy seat. The light grey leather back and polished nickel ferrules add a sophisticated contrast, making this chaise the ultimate blend of modern and classic.

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📲 (905)-791-9660
📧 info@directinteriors.com
📍2005 Clark Blvd, Brampton, ON

#DirectInteriors #SculpturalBeauty #ModernComfort #HomeDecor #InteriorDesign #FurnitureDesign #ChaiseLounge #ModernClassic #BoucleFurniture #LuxuryLiving #DesignInspiration

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Sculptural Beauty Meets Modern Comfort... 💎 With its curvaceous silhouette upholstered in soft taupe bouclé and framed by rich espresso wood, the Hudson Chaise is as much a sculptural masterpiece as it is a functional, comfy seat. The light grey leather back and polished nickel ferrules add a sophisticated contrast, making this chaise the ultimate blend of modern and classic. • • • 📲 (905)-791-9660 📧 info@directinteriors.com 📍2005 Clark Blvd, Brampton, ON #DirectInteriors #SculpturalBeauty #ModernComfort #HomeDecor #InteriorDesign #FurnitureDesign #ChaiseLounge #ModernClassic #BoucleFurniture #LuxuryLiving #DesignInspiration

Sculptural Beauty Meets Modern Comfort... 💎

With its curvaceous silhouette upholstered in soft taupe bouclé and framed by rich espresso wood, the Hudson Chaise is as much a sculptural masterpiece as it is a functional, comfy seat. The light grey leather back and polished nickel ferrules add a sophisticated contrast, making this chaise the ultimate blend of modern and classic.

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📲 (905)-791-9660
📧 info@directinteriors.com
📍2005 Clark Blvd, Brampton, ON

#DirectInteriors #SculpturalBeauty #ModernComfort #HomeDecor #InteriorDesign #FurnitureDesign #ChaiseLounge #ModernClassic #BoucleFurniture #LuxuryLiving #DesignInspiration ...

🎉⚡️SEPTEMBER FLASH SALE⚡️🎉

Every Wednesday for the month of September we will be announcing a featured supplier. This week’s feature is @sunpan - enjoy 30% off our regular selling price of all Sunpan orders from now until this Saturday, September 14th.

Got a friend who loves a great furniture deal? Tag them in the comments or share this reel and help spread the word! Happy shopping! 🥰🛋️

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For any questions or inquiries, don’t hesitate to reach out👇

📲 (905)-791-9660
📧 info@directinteriors.com
📍2005 Clark Blvd, Brampton, ON

#directinteriors #furnituresale #homedecor #luxuryliving #interiordesign #homesweethome #furnituredeals

Open
🎉⚡️SEPTEMBER FLASH SALE⚡️🎉 Every Wednesday for the month of September we will be announcing a featured supplier. This week’s feature is @sunpan - enjoy 30% off our regular selling price of all Sunpan orders from now until this Saturday, September 14th. Got a friend who loves a great furniture deal? Tag them in the comments or share this reel and help spread the word! Happy shopping! 🥰🛋️ • • • For any questions or inquiries, don’t hesitate to reach out👇 📲 (905)-791-9660 📧 info@directinteriors.com 📍2005 Clark Blvd, Brampton, ON #directinteriors #furnituresale #homedecor #luxuryliving #interiordesign #homesweethome #furnituredeals

🎉⚡️SEPTEMBER FLASH SALE⚡️🎉

Every Wednesday for the month of September we will be announcing a featured supplier. This week’s feature is @sunpan - enjoy 30% off our regular selling price of all Sunpan orders from now until this Saturday, September 14th.

Got a friend who loves a great furniture deal? Tag them in the comments or share this reel and help spread the word! Happy shopping! 🥰🛋️

•
•
•

For any questions or inquiries, don’t hesitate to reach out👇

📲 (905)-791-9660
📧 info@directinteriors.com
📍2005 Clark Blvd, Brampton, ON

#directinteriors #furnituresale #homedecor #luxuryliving #interiordesign #homesweethome #furnituredeals ...

Dinner, drinks, or deep conversations—@caracolehome`s Take A Seat dining chair has you covered.

With its sleek Scandinavian design, contrasting leather outback, and bronze details, it’s a chair that combines comfort with high-end style. The monochromatic palette gives off laid-back vibes, but the luxury is undeniable. 🍷🖤

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📲 (905)-791-9660
📧 info@directinteriors.com
📍2005 Clark Blvd, Brampton, ON

#DirectInteriors #DiningRoomGoals #ScandiStyle #ModernElegance #Caracole #FurnitureDesign #DiningInStyle #DiningRoomInspo

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Dinner, drinks, or deep conversations—@caracolehome's Take A Seat dining chair has you covered. With its sleek Scandinavian design, contrasting leather outback, and bronze details, it’s a chair that combines comfort with high-end style. The monochromatic palette gives off laid-back vibes, but the luxury is undeniable. 🍷🖤 • • • 📲 (905)-791-9660 📧 info@directinteriors.com 📍2005 Clark Blvd, Brampton, ON #DirectInteriors #DiningRoomGoals #ScandiStyle #ModernElegance #Caracole #FurnitureDesign #DiningInStyle #DiningRoomInspo

Dinner, drinks, or deep conversations—@caracolehome`s Take A Seat dining chair has you covered.

With its sleek Scandinavian design, contrasting leather outback, and bronze details, it’s a chair that combines comfort with high-end style. The monochromatic palette gives off laid-back vibes, but the luxury is undeniable. 🍷🖤

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📲 (905)-791-9660
📧 info@directinteriors.com
📍2005 Clark Blvd, Brampton, ON

#DirectInteriors #DiningRoomGoals #ScandiStyle #ModernElegance #Caracole #FurnitureDesign #DiningInStyle #DiningRoomInspo ...

Transform your workspace into a place you actually want to spend time in! ✨🖥️

Check out some of the stunning home office designs we’ve created at Direct Interiors—each one uniquely crafted to inspire productivity, creativity, and comfort. From sleek modern setups to cozy corners, there’s a style for everyone.

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Visit the link in bio or get in touch with us to book your consultation👇

📲 (905)-791-9660
📧 info@directinteriors.com
📍2005 Clark Blvd, Brampton, ON

#DirectInteriors #HomeOfficeGoals #OfficeInspo #WorkFromHomeStyle #InteriorDesign #ProductivitySpace

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Transform your workspace into a place you actually want to spend time in! ✨🖥️ Check out some of the stunning home office designs we’ve created at Direct Interiors—each one uniquely crafted to inspire productivity, creativity, and comfort. From sleek modern setups to cozy corners, there’s a style for everyone. • • • Visit the link in bio or get in touch with us to book your consultation👇 📲 (905)-791-9660 📧 info@directinteriors.com 📍2005 Clark Blvd, Brampton, ON #DirectInteriors #HomeOfficeGoals #OfficeInspo #WorkFromHomeStyle #InteriorDesign #ProductivitySpace

Transform your workspace into a place you actually want to spend time in! ✨🖥️

Check out some of the stunning home office designs we’ve created at Direct Interiors—each one uniquely crafted to inspire productivity, creativity, and comfort. From sleek modern setups to cozy corners, there’s a style for everyone.

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•
•

Visit the link in bio or get in touch with us to book your consultation👇

📲 (905)-791-9660
📧 info@directinteriors.com
📍2005 Clark Blvd, Brampton, ON

#DirectInteriors #HomeOfficeGoals #OfficeInspo #WorkFromHomeStyle #InteriorDesign #ProductivitySpace ...

Safety and style in perfect harmony. ✨

The Como Naturale collection by @natartjuvenile brings Scandinavian-inspired simplicity, minimalism, and functionality to your little one’s space. Crafted from Ash wood and Rustic Oak, this two-tone design in Graphite and Rustic Oak offers a beautiful contrast that adds warmth and elegance. 🌿

With thin handles and a modern frame, this collection is as functional as it is stylish. Featuring 8 spacious drawers in the double dresser and 6 in the tall chest, there’s plenty of room for all your nursery essentials.

Ready to elevate your nursery with safety and style? Get in touch with us to get started 👇

📲 (905)-791-9660
📧 info@directinteriors.com
📍2005 Clark Blvd, Brampton, ON

#DirectInteriors #DIKids #NurseryDesign #ScandiStyle #NatartJuvenile #SafetyFirst #ModernNursery #NurseryGoals #Parenting

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Safety and style in perfect harmony. ✨ The Como Naturale collection by @natartjuvenile brings Scandinavian-inspired simplicity, minimalism, and functionality to your little one’s space. Crafted from Ash wood and Rustic Oak, this two-tone design in Graphite and Rustic Oak offers a beautiful contrast that adds warmth and elegance. 🌿 With thin handles and a modern frame, this collection is as functional as it is stylish. Featuring 8 spacious drawers in the double dresser and 6 in the tall chest, there’s plenty of room for all your nursery essentials. Ready to elevate your nursery with safety and style? Get in touch with us to get started 👇 📲 (905)-791-9660 📧 info@directinteriors.com 📍2005 Clark Blvd, Brampton, ON #DirectInteriors #DIKids #NurseryDesign #ScandiStyle #NatartJuvenile #SafetyFirst #ModernNursery #NurseryGoals #Parenting

Safety and style in perfect harmony. ✨

The Como Naturale collection by @natartjuvenile brings Scandinavian-inspired simplicity, minimalism, and functionality to your little one’s space. Crafted from Ash wood and Rustic Oak, this two-tone design in Graphite and Rustic Oak offers a beautiful contrast that adds warmth and elegance. 🌿

With thin handles and a modern frame, this collection is as functional as it is stylish. Featuring 8 spacious drawers in the double dresser and 6 in the tall chest, there’s plenty of room for all your nursery essentials.

Ready to elevate your nursery with safety and style? Get in touch with us to get started 👇

📲 (905)-791-9660
📧 info@directinteriors.com
📍2005 Clark Blvd, Brampton, ON

#DirectInteriors #DIKids #NurseryDesign #ScandiStyle #NatartJuvenile #SafetyFirst #ModernNursery #NurseryGoals #Parenting ...

SEPTEMBER FLASH SALE 🎉
Every Wednesday for the month of September we will be announcing a featured supplier. Our very first flash sale is in our DI MKT! All floor model lighting $200 or less. Floor model area rugs starting at $50. #furnituresale #directinteriors #homedecor #luxuryliving

Open
SEPTEMBER FLASH SALE 🎉 Every Wednesday for the month of September we will be announcing a featured supplier. Our very first flash sale is in our DI MKT! All floor model lighting $200 or less. Floor model area rugs starting at $50. #furnituresale #directinteriors #homedecor #luxuryliving

SEPTEMBER FLASH SALE 🎉
Every Wednesday for the month of September we will be announcing a featured supplier. Our very first flash sale is in our DI MKT! All floor model lighting $200 or less. Floor model area rugs starting at $50. #furnituresale #directinteriors #homedecor #luxuryliving ...

Meet the sofa that’s equal parts comfort and style—the Little Wave Sofa. 🛋️

With its elegantly curved arms and plush cushions, this sofa will easily be your new favourite spot to relax. The warm white chenille upholstery, with its chic bronze undertones, is designed to resist stains and odours, making it as practical as it is beautiful. Handcrafted in High Point, NC, it’s a true testament to quality and craftsmanship.

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📲 (905)-791-9660
📧 info@directinteriors.com
📍2005 Clark Blvd, Brampton, ON

#DirectInteriors #InteriorDesign #Minimalism #InteriorInspiration #FurnitureDesign #DesignInspiration #ModernLiving #LuxuryFurniture #LivingRoomGoals #LivingRoomDesign

Open
Meet the sofa that’s equal parts comfort and style—the Little Wave Sofa. 🛋️ With its elegantly curved arms and plush cushions, this sofa will easily be your new favourite spot to relax. The warm white chenille upholstery, with its chic bronze undertones, is designed to resist stains and odours, making it as practical as it is beautiful. Handcrafted in High Point, NC, it’s a true testament to quality and craftsmanship. • • • 📲 (905)-791-9660 📧 info@directinteriors.com 📍2005 Clark Blvd, Brampton, ON #DirectInteriors #InteriorDesign #Minimalism #InteriorInspiration #FurnitureDesign #DesignInspiration #ModernLiving #LuxuryFurniture #LivingRoomGoals #LivingRoomDesign

Meet the sofa that’s equal parts comfort and style—the Little Wave Sofa. 🛋️

With its elegantly curved arms and plush cushions, this sofa will easily be your new favourite spot to relax. The warm white chenille upholstery, with its chic bronze undertones, is designed to resist stains and odours, making it as practical as it is beautiful. Handcrafted in High Point, NC, it’s a true testament to quality and craftsmanship.

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•
•

📲 (905)-791-9660
📧 info@directinteriors.com
📍2005 Clark Blvd, Brampton, ON

#DirectInteriors #InteriorDesign #Minimalism #InteriorInspiration #FurnitureDesign #DesignInspiration #ModernLiving #LuxuryFurniture #LivingRoomGoals #LivingRoomDesign ...

Inspired by the timeless allure of a polished metal ice bucket, this sleek sideboard by @caracolehome effortlessly combines elegant design with unexpected materials. The iconic kidney bean shape is finished in Almost Black, with stunning silver door fronts framed by a touch of Brushed Gold.

More than just gloss and glamour, its spacious interior offers ample room for keeping entertaining essentials, and a Snow Fox stone top lends a luxe yet durable surface for serving and display. This piece is the perfect blend of glamour and function. 🌟

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📲 (905)-791-9660
📧 info@directinteriors.com
📍 2005 Clark Blvd, Brampton, ON

#DirectInteriors #InteriorInspo #HomeDecor #StatementPiece #LuxuryLiving #HomeDecorInspo #InteriorDesignIdeas #FurnitureInspiration

Open
Inspired by the timeless allure of a polished metal ice bucket, this sleek sideboard by @caracolehome effortlessly combines elegant design with unexpected materials. The iconic kidney bean shape is finished in Almost Black, with stunning silver door fronts framed by a touch of Brushed Gold. More than just gloss and glamour, its spacious interior offers ample room for keeping entertaining essentials, and a Snow Fox stone top lends a luxe yet durable surface for serving and display. This piece is the perfect blend of glamour and function. 🌟 • • • 📲 (905)-791-9660 📧 info@directinteriors.com 📍 2005 Clark Blvd, Brampton, ON #DirectInteriors #InteriorInspo #HomeDecor #StatementPiece #LuxuryLiving #HomeDecorInspo #InteriorDesignIdeas #FurnitureInspiration

Inspired by the timeless allure of a polished metal ice bucket, this sleek sideboard by @caracolehome effortlessly combines elegant design with unexpected materials. The iconic kidney bean shape is finished in Almost Black, with stunning silver door fronts framed by a touch of Brushed Gold.

More than just gloss and glamour, its spacious interior offers ample room for keeping entertaining essentials, and a Snow Fox stone top lends a luxe yet durable surface for serving and display. This piece is the perfect blend of glamour and function. 🌟

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•
•

📲 (905)-791-9660
📧 info@directinteriors.com
📍 2005 Clark Blvd, Brampton, ON

#DirectInteriors #InteriorInspo #HomeDecor #StatementPiece #LuxuryLiving #HomeDecorInspo #InteriorDesignIdeas #FurnitureInspiration ...

Happy Labour Day!! Here’s to taking a well-deserved break and enjoying the spaces that make home truly special. From our Direct Interiors family to yours, wishing you a day full of comfort and relaxation. 🛋️❤️

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Happy Labour Day!! Here’s to taking a well-deserved break and enjoying the spaces that make home truly special. From our Direct Interiors family to yours, wishing you a day full of comfort and relaxation. 🛋️❤️

Happy Labour Day!! Here’s to taking a well-deserved break and enjoying the spaces that make home truly special. From our Direct Interiors family to yours, wishing you a day full of comfort and relaxation. 🛋️❤️ ...

Talk about a glow-up! Our latest lighting install has us swooning over these gorgeous sconces💡✨

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📲 (905)-791-9660
📧 info@directinteriors.com
📍 2005 Clark Blvd, Brampton, ON

#DirectInteriors #InteriorInspo #LightingDesign #SconceLighting #InteriorStyling #LightingInspiration #InteriorDesignInspo #GlowUp #HomeDecorIdeas #LightingFixtures

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Talk about a glow-up! Our latest lighting install has us swooning over these gorgeous sconces💡✨ • • • 📲 (905)-791-9660 📧 info@directinteriors.com 📍 2005 Clark Blvd, Brampton, ON #DirectInteriors #InteriorInspo #LightingDesign #SconceLighting #InteriorStyling #LightingInspiration #InteriorDesignInspo #GlowUp #HomeDecorIdeas #LightingFixtures

Talk about a glow-up! Our latest lighting install has us swooning over these gorgeous sconces💡✨

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📲 (905)-791-9660
📧 info@directinteriors.com
📍 2005 Clark Blvd, Brampton, ON

#DirectInteriors #InteriorInspo #LightingDesign #SconceLighting #InteriorStyling #LightingInspiration #InteriorDesignInspo #GlowUp #HomeDecorIdeas #LightingFixtures ...