Sandra Best Décor is a firm that specializes in all interior spheres: Interior Design, Interior Decorating and Home Staging. Many people still think they are all the same so today I’d like to explain the difference in my own words.
Interior Design:
Design & Decoration are often confused for one of the same. But I can say that while an interior designer can decorate, an interior decorator who has no training can’t design.
An interior designer is responsible for the design and construction of a space based on aesthetic, functionality and safety. For this they must realize the plans, sketching, estimate cost, submit quotes, manage the projects etc. They read blueprints and must be aware of building codes and inspection regulations.
As a designer here are some of my typical duties:
-Search for and bid on new projects
-Determine the client’s goals and requirements of the project
-Consider how the space will be used and how people will move through the space
-Sketch preliminary design plans, including electrical layouts
-Specify materials and furnishings, such as lighting, furniture, wall finishes, flooring, and plumbing fixtures
-Prepare final plans, using computer applications (I use AutoCad & Sketch up)
-Create a timeline for the interior design project and estimate project costs
-Place orders for materials and oversee installing the design elements
-Visit after the project to ensure the client is satisfied.
Interior Decorating
An Interior decorator on the other hand works with individuals or companies to arrange and decorate spaces using furniture, accessories, fixtures, color schemes and artwork. An Interior decorator doesn’t need any formal training, knowledge of color coordination and specific materials is necessary. it’s also great to be familiar with trends in furniture styles and fabric choices.
As a decorator my typical duties are:
-Meet clients to determine style, budget and needs.
-Make suggestions for furniture layout, color, fabric choices, lighting fixtures and wall covering
-Research desired items on client’s budget
-Present a mood board with selected items to help client envision the space
Home Staging
Many people don’t know this but Home Staging is my first love!
Home staging is the practice of preparing a property for sale or rent. Unlike what people think, home staging is not about decorating a home to put it on the market. I often tell people home staging is about un-decorating (I made up that word). Since the entire purpose of home staging is to make a residence appear as attractive and appealing as possible to prospective buyer, it’s important to remove any specific decoration personal items, bold color choices and tone things down! Home staging is not just esthetic interventions like updates, furniture layout or neutral paint colors. There are also technical interventions like repairs, decluttering and cleanliness and odor interventions.
As a home stager here are some of my typical duties:
-Visit and analyze a residence up for sale
-Advise the home seller on how to improve the property through a detailed room by room report
-Establish priorities according to the sellers budget (which rooms will generate the most return)
-Provide quotes for minor repairs and furniture/accessory rental
-Help home owner set up property or sale or open house (sometimes I even bake a little something)
The most important aspect as a home stage is to not be specific in the way we present a home and be aware of trends. Also the nature of this job is very intrusive as we get into people homes! It requires, tact and empathy as you never know why someone might be selling ( divorce, death etc.)
So there you have it, I hope this has helped you see the difference between three distinct careers! I love them all and I’m blessed to be able to offer all those services.
