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.

Direct Interiors invites you to explore, create, and redefine your living spaces with a touch of luxury and a splash of creativity. Visit our showroom or connect with our designers to infuse your home with the magic of patterns and textures.

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

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TESTIMONIALS

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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 #Juvenile #Nursery #NurseryDesign #Natart #ConvertibleCrib #MattyChangingMat

Transform your nursery with the versatile Emerson 5-in-1 Crib—convertible to a toddler bed, daybed, double bed with a low-profile footboard, or double bed headboard.

Don`t miss out on the final day to snag a complimentary Matty Changing Mat with your purchase of a Natart or Nest dresser and crib with double bed conversion. Seize this sweet deal today!





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

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

#DirectInteriors #Juvenile #Nursery #NurseryDesign #Natart #ConvertibleCrib #MattyChangingMat
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Dive into the world of design where curves meet angles, and artistry meets functionality. The Equilibrium Console is a visual masterpiece, striking the perfect balance with its bold U-shaped bronzed body and a top/base adorned in a contemporary, textured finish. ✨🔄 
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📲 (905)-791-9660
📧 info@directinteriors.com
📍 2005 Clark Blvd, Brampton, ON
#DirectInteriors #DesignPerfection #InteriorDesign

Dive into the world of design where curves meet angles, and artistry meets functionality. The Equilibrium Console is a visual masterpiece, striking the perfect balance with its bold U-shaped bronzed body and a top/base adorned in a contemporary, textured finish. ✨🔄





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

#DirectInteriors #DesignPerfection #InteriorDesign
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Sending heartfelt Thanksgiving wishes to our American friends and partners! May your day be filled with love, laughter, and all the blessings this season brings. 🦃✨

Sending heartfelt Thanksgiving wishes to our American friends and partners! May your day be filled with love, laughter, and all the blessings this season brings. 🦃✨ ...

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📲 (905)-791-9660
📧 info@directinteriors.com
📍2005 Clark Blvd, Brampton, ON
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⏰ Only 7 days left! Get a FREE Matty Changing Mat with the purchase of a Natart or Nest Dresser and Crib with double bed conversion until November 27th only.

The Matty Changing Mat is a game-changer in baby care.

Made in Denmark, the Matty Changing Mat is designed with soft PUR foam that gives your child a feeling of skin-to-skin contact when lying on it. It’s not just unique; it’s timeless and incredibly durable. Unlike typical changing mats, the Matty™ is practically indestructible, so it lasts for all your children.
It features a fixed base, giving you flexibility in placement, such as on top of a dresser. It’s water-repellent and free of endocrine disrupters, ensuring your child’s safety.

Rest easy knowing the Matty™ changing mat is rigorously tested and certified according to European child safety standards. It has also earned the prestigious TÜV SÜD safety certification, a globally recognized mark of safety excellence. 🌟💙





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

#DirectInteriors #DIKids #ChangingMat #SpecialOffer #BabyEssentials #MattyChangingMat
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📲 (905)-791-9660
📧 info@directinteriors.com
📍 2005 Clark Blvd, Brampton, ON
#DirectInteriors #DesignPerfection #InteriorDesign #InteriorDecorating #HomeDecor

Comfort and style in every corner.

Transform your living space into a cozy haven with @kevinchiudesign’s magic touch. 🏡✨





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

#DirectInteriors #DesignPerfection #InteriorDesign #InteriorDecorating #HomeDecor
...

Taylor by Natart: Classic style with contemporary accents of beveled tops and drawer front façades enhanced with Italian handles.
The Taylor ‘5-in-1’ Convertible Crib features robust posts, substantial tops, and a framed back panel, providing a sense of safety and comfort for your little one. Available in White and Elephant Grey with sleek Italian black pewter handles, as well as Graphite with antique bronze handles, you can choose the perfect fit for your nursery.
But that's not all—the Taylor collection offers a wide array of accompanying pieces, making it a versatile choice for your child's room. With five configurable options, including crib, toddler bed, daybed, double bed, and double bed with a low-profile footboard, it seamlessly transitions from infancy through the teenage years, promising long-term value and timeless style.
✨ Purchase a Natart or Nest Dresser and Crib with double bed conversion by November 27th, and receive a FREE Matty Changing Mat to complete your nursery setup.
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📲 (905)-791-9660
📧 info@directinteriors.com
📍2005 Clark Blvd, Brampton, ON
#DirectInteriors #DIKids #ChangingMat #SpecialOffer #NurseryDesign

Taylor by Natart: Classic style with contemporary accents of beveled tops and drawer front façades enhanced with Italian handles.

The Taylor ‘5-in-1’ Convertible Crib features robust posts, substantial tops, and a framed back panel, providing a sense of safety and comfort for your little one. Available in White and Elephant Grey with sleek Italian black pewter handles, as well as Graphite with antique bronze handles, you can choose the perfect fit for your nursery.

But that`s not all—the Taylor collection offers a wide array of accompanying pieces, making it a versatile choice for your child`s room. With five configurable options, including crib, toddler bed, daybed, double bed, and double bed with a low-profile footboard, it seamlessly transitions from infancy through the teenage years, promising long-term value and timeless style.

✨ Purchase a Natart or Nest Dresser and Crib with double bed conversion by November 27th, and receive a FREE Matty Changing Mat to complete your nursery setup.





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

#DirectInteriors #DIKids #ChangingMat #SpecialOffer #NurseryDesign
...

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*Please note this offer is not valid on discontinued items or orders placed prior to November 9th, and cannot be combined with another offer.
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📲 (905)-791-9660
📧 info@directinteriors.com
📍2005 Clark Blvd, Brampton, ON
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Spice up your dining space with Caracole! From now until November 30th, enjoy 15% off all @caracolehome dining furniture. Visit our showroom and let your taste for elegance flourish.

*Please note this offer is not valid on discontinued items or orders placed prior to November 9th, and cannot be combined with another offer.





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

#DirectInteriors #Caracole #FurnitureSale #DiningInspo #DiningRoomDesign #InteriorDesign #DiningRoom #LuxuryLiving #HomeInspiration #InteriorStyling
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A modern kitchen masterpiece. Designed by the talented @kevinchiudesign ✨
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📲 (905)-791-9660
📧 info@directinteriors.com
📍2005 Clark Blvd, Brampton, ON
#DirectInteriorsFurniture #KitchenGoals #InteriorDesign #KitchenInspo

A modern kitchen masterpiece. Designed by the talented @kevinchiudesign ✨





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

#DirectInteriorsFurniture #KitchenGoals #InteriorDesign #KitchenInspo
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